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Golden jackal (Canis aureus) is one of the most common canid in Iran and can be found in habitats from Southeast Asia to Europe. Its rapid range expansion into Europe is indicated by the single haplotype (H1) of the mtDNA control region. H1 is the pioneer haplotype that expanded its range to Europe. Haplotypes from Turkey to Europe (western dispersal) and India (eastern dispersal) were identified before, while Iranian haplotypes are not known. Here, we completed its haplotype distribution from India to Europe by collecting samples from Iran. Results show that H1 is the most frequent Iranian haplotype compared to the five other haplotypes, and its most eastern distribution is in northeastern Iran. The phylogenetic tree and median-joining network indicate that all haplotypes are monophyletic, but Indian and Eurasian haplotypes are almost exclusive. We considered Oriental (Indian haplotypes + H13 from southeastern Iran) and Palearctic (others) haplogroups to explain haplotype distribution based on a median-joining network. The Oriental haplogroup is probably adapted to India towards southeastern Iran, while the Palearctic haplogroup is responsible for the current range expansion from Iran to Europe. The distribution and frequency of haplotypes indicate the rapid large-scale expansion, and unique haplotypes for specific geographic regions might be related to local adaptation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the phylogenetic relationship among Fusarium graminearum Schwabe isolates was established for the first time based on mitochondrial cox3 and rnl gene variations. The genes were amplified from 45 isolates purified from Türkiye and Iran together with 2 Korean strains by polymerase chain reaction. The amplicons were sequenced and nucleotide polymorphisms were detected by alignment. The phylogenetic relationship was constructed by using PAUP 4.0a with the maximum parsimony method. Fragments with 477 bp length, belonging to cox3, were obtained from 46 samples; 1547 bp-amplicons of rnl were produced from 45 samples. Sequence similarities were calculated as 30-100 % and 17-94 % for cox3 and rnl, respectively. Nucleotide variations within the rnl was found higher than within cox3. It was shown that SNPs and in-dels, found in coding regions, cause a codon change and may alter more than one codon by causing frame shift without affect gene functions. Bootstrap values belonging to cox3 and rnl dataset was found ranging from 57 to 84 %, and 54 to 100 %, respectively. Parsimony analysis revealed that Korean isolates were in monophyletic relationship with Turkish and Iranian isolates. It is proposed that the methodology can be applied to other fungal species because the phylogenetic relationships at the intraspecific level are able to establish among Fusarium species based on mitochondrial gene variation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & Aims: Autism disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder whose symptoms are mainly in the early months of life, especially between 12 and 24 months and in general, up to 3years of age, and due to severe and persistent deficiencies in communication and interactions. Social, communication skills, limited, inflexible, and repetitive patterns appear in behavior, activities, and interests, as well as cognitive and functional disorders. However, what has been studied so far has shown that mitochondria play an essential role in degenerative diseases, and its various effects are mainly through the cellular redox mode by mitochondria and through oxidation and reduction of NADH. H+ and NAD + are maintained; Are interconnected. Abnormal accumulation of oxygen/nitrogen reaction species and superoxide formation can lead to oxidative stress and their accumulation may damage cellular structures. Superoxide is also immediately converted to hydrogen peroxide by superoxide dismutase enzymes. The presence of hydrogen peroxide may be toxic to cells. The brain, on the other hand, is one of the main consumers of oxygen, and mitochondria are the largest source of energy for the normal functioning of brain cells, and as a result, large amounts of reactive oxygen species accumulate in several areas of the brain. However, at least in some cases, there are relatively weak protection mechanisms. Because of this, the brain may be very sensitive to attacks related to the accumulation of radicals. In addition, mitochondria play an important role in calcium homeostasis, signaling, and regulation of apoptosis. Also, growing nerve cells have a vital need for oxidative phosphorylation for important growth processes, and the immature brain is uniquely vulnerable to defects in bioenergy capacity; Thus, mitochondrial disorders may lead to a variety of developmental neurological disorders . In general, conducting such research is of particular importance, especially given the growing number of patients with autism spectrum disorders and the various challenges in the timely and accurate differential diagnosis of these disorders. In this regard, after reviewing the literature and the existing research background, it was found that so far in our country, no research has been conducted to evaluate the biomarkers of mitochondrial function in people with autism spectrum disorder. Methods: To conduct the present applied research, among children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder in Tehran, among patients with nausea (51people), 10affected children and 10healthy children were randomly selected and divided into two experimental and control groups. Were divided. The required data were then used through demographic information questionnaires, history and medical records, Gilliam-2 Autism Rating Scale and laboratory kits. Finally, the data were analyzed using the rock curve. Results: The results presented in Table2 and the value of AUC= 0.890, it can be said that the ability to test or test creatine phosphokinase (CPKMB) in the diagnosis of ASD disorder is in the category or "good and close to excellent level." Also since the probability value is equal to 0.0032; It can be said that this result is significant and can be cited at the level of significance of five percent (and even one percent). Based on the findings, the number of cutting points is also equal to>24.0, which shows; Based on the diagnostic test (CPKMB), people with creatine phosphokinase levels greater than 24.0 units can be identified; He was considered a person with symptoms of autism. Individuals whose test scores are less than 24.0 are also identified as asymptomatic or healthy. Based on the information in Table3 and the value obtained for the curve surface (AUC= 1.000), it can be said that the ability of the Lactate test to diagnose this disorder is complete and "excellent" and shows that this test has a very good performance in the field. It is the correct identification and determination of healthy people with disorders. The numerical value of the cutting point is also equal to>21.5, which shows; Based on the Lactate diagnostic test, those whose lactate level is more than 21.5 units can be identified; Considered people with autism spectrum disorder. Those whose test results are less than 21.5 units are also considered healthy. Based on the data in Table4 and the value obtained for the subsurface (AUC= 0.790), it can be said that the ability of the Pyruvate test to diagnose ASD is "relatively good". Accordingly, since the probability value of Pvalue is equal to 0.0284, it can be said that this result is significant and can be cited at the level of significance of five percent and even one percent. The numerical value of the cut-off point for this experiment is equal to <0.865, which indicates; Based on the Pyruvate diagnostic test, people with a pyruvate score of less than 0.865 can be considered a person with ASD. Those for whom the number obtained is more than 0.865 units are also recognized as healthy. Based on the information in Table5 and the value obtained for the cut-off point (AUC= 0.970), it can be said that the ability of the L:P test to diagnose this disorder is "excellent" and efficient. Accordingly, at the significance level of five percent and one percent, since the probability value or Pvalue is equal to 0.0004; It can be said that this result is meaningful and worthy of citation. The numerical value of the cut-off point in this test is equal to>31.05, which shows; Based on the L:P diagnostic test, those with a lactate to pyruvate or L:P ratio greater than 31.05 can be considered as having symptoms of ASD. Those with an L: P score of less than 31.05 are also considered healthy. Based on the results of Table 6 and AUC = 0.765, it can be said that the ability of Creatinine test to diagnose autism spectrum disorder is in the category of "relatively good". Since the probability value P for this test (creatinine biomarker test) is 0.0452; It can be said that this result, at the level of significance of five percent, is significant and worthy of citation. Obviously, this result, at a significance level of one percent, is not worthy of citation and significance. Conclusion: The studied biomarkers have high and very good diagnostic power and efficiency in the field of accurate and early assessment and diagnosis of autism spectrum disorders (especially in severity levels 2 and 3), and they can be used along with other diagnostic biomarkers, along with other measurement methods. Evaluated and diagnosed this disorder, and in the first three years of the child's development, as a golden and very sensitive and important period of diagnosis and treatment of autism, achieved a more accurate differential diagnosis and education, rehabilitation and treatment or improvement of symptoms at the most appropriate time. Possibly, he started and achieved better results in this regard. Also, according to the results of evaluation and measurement of biomarkers of mitochondrial function in each diagnosed individual, based on the new and valuable approach of "Molecular Psychology and Molecular Psychiatry", one of the new and appropriate methods for each individual (including individual or personal molecular medicine) to modify And used to improve mitochondrial dysfunction (for example, drug therapy to regulate serum levels of the aforementioned molecules in the patient to a normal level and reduce related symptoms), and finally, to reduce the symptoms and relative treatment of the person with autism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A wide range of hosts, especially birds, can be infested with Dermanyssus gallinae (D. gallinae), as an obligate hematophagous mite. In this study, cytochrome oxidase 1 (CO1) gene sequences were employed to perform molecular and phylogenetic analyses of D. gallinae collected from different bird species in Iran. Adult mites were collected from the body surface and cage material of ornamental and wild birds in industrial farms located in the Western and Northwestern regions of Iran. The infestation was identified in layer poultry farming by inspecting the eggs and the whole surfaces of the birds' bodies. The holding area and body surface of the ornamental and wild birds were also thoroughly examined. The D. gallinae samples were assigned to two subgroups of haplogroup A (i.e., A1 and A2). The phylogenetic tree suggested that the D. gallinae samples collected from wild birds in the A1 sub-haplogroup should be placed beside Japanese, Norwegian, Italian, and French samples isolated from wild birds in the A2 sub-haplogroup. Additionally, the highest phylogenetic similarity in the A2 sub-group was observed between mites isolated from ornamental and industrial birds in Australia. The findings of the present study suggest that crows and sparrows may play an important role in the transmission of D. gallinae infestation to other species of wild birds due to their high population, as well as their presence in most areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Mitochondria are cellular organelles required for energy production, vital to reproduction, especially oocyte maturation and fertilization. It has been seen that oocyte cryopreservation (OC) can cause mitochondria damage, aggregation of lipid droplets near mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum, and cryoinjury. In recent studies use of antioxidants such as L- carnitine can increase the number of active mitochondria and decrease intracellular ROS levels. The present study aimed to determine the beneficial effect of L --carnitine on oocyte mitochondrial activity after vitrification. Materials and Methods: In the present experimental study, 6-8 weeks of female NMRI mice were taken from the Royan Institute of Iran and stimulated with 7.5 IU Pregnant Mare Serum Gonadotrophin (PMSG) and 10 IU of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) after 48 hours was injected. After stimulation, oocytes were collected, and MII oocytes were selected. A two-step vitrification procedure was done, and 0.6mg/ml of L --carnitine was added to both ES and VS mediums. After two weeks, oocyte thawing was performed, intracellular GSH level was also measured mitochondrial membrane potential was measured. Captured images were analyzed by J software (Version 1.40; and obtained data were analyzed using SPSS Ver.20. Results: Average difference in intracytoplasmic GSH level in the study group was significantly higher than the control group (P<0.001). So, L --carnitine could successfully increase the oocyte intracytoplasmic GSH level. Also, it has been seen that the LC supplement could successfully grow oocyte mitochondrial function and subsequent mitochondrial membrane potentials(P<0.001). Conclusion: Adding LC to the cryopreservation media could increase mitochondrial activity, GSH level, and mitochondrial membrane potentials. Adding LC to the cryopreservation could enjoy the beneficial effect of L -- carnitine on oocyte mitochondrial activity after vitrification and minimize mitochondrial damage and boost oocyte quality which can lead to successful fertilization and embryo growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Myopia is a very common eye disease with an unknown etiology. Increasing evidence shows that mitochondrial dysfunction plays an active role in the pathogenesis and progression of this disease. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to analyze the relationship between mitochondrial tRNA (mt-tRNA) variants and high myopia (HM). Methods: The entire mt-tRNA genes of 150 children with HM, as well as 100 healthy subjects, were PCR-amplified and sequenced. To assess the pathogenicity, we used the phylogenetic conservation analysis and pathogenicity scoring system. Results: We identified six candidate pathogenic variants: tRNALeu (UUR)T3290C, tRNAIle A4317G, tRNAAla G5591A, tRNASer (UCN) T7501C, tRNAHis T12201C, and tRNAThr G15915A. However, these variants were not identified in controls. Further phylogenetic analysis revealed that these variants occurred at the positions, which were very evolutionarily conserved and may have structural-functional impacts on the tRNAs. Subsequently, these variantsmaylead to the impairment of mitochondrial translation and aggravated mitochondrial dysfunction, which play an active role in the phenotypic expression of HM. Conclusions: Our results suggested that variants in mt-tRNA genes were the risk factors for HM, which provided valuable information for the early detection and prevention of HM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Different genotypes of Echinococcus granulosus sensu stricto (s.s.) isolated from livestock and humans have been identified based on cox1 and nad1 genomic fragments. The present study was performed to differentiate the G1/G3 genotypes of Echinococcus granulosus (s.s.) isolated from humans and livestock (sheep and cattle) from Azerbaijan in northwestern Iran, Fars Province in southern Iran, and Van province in Eastern Turkey, using the nad5 gene fragment as a suitable marker to distinguish these two genotypes. Methods: A total of 60 pathologically confirmed human hydatid cysts and 90 hydatid cyst samples from livestock were collected from Turkey and Iran. PCR was performed on all of the samples, targeting the nad5 gene. Based on PCR product quality, host type, and the geographical area where the samples were obtained, 36 of the samples were sequenced and were used in the phylogenetic analysis. Results: Out of 36 evaluated samples, 26 (72.2%) samples belonged to G1, and 10 (27.8%) samples belonged to the G3 genotype. Out of 21 samples from Turkey, 16 (76.2%) were G1 and 5 (23.8%) were G3, while out of 15 samples from Iran, 10 (66.7%) were G1 and 5 (33.3%) were the G3 genotype. None of the samples isolated from humans in Iran or from sheep in Turkey were G3. Overall, between the two countries, 18.18% of E. granulosus isolates in cattle, 41.66% of isolates in sheep, and 23.07% of human samples were identified as G3, and the others as the G1 genotype. The G3 genotype was not detected in human samples from Iran or sheep samples from Turkey. Conclusion: The findings of the study revealed that the G1 genotype of E. granulosus s.s. is the predominant genotype in humans and livestock, both in Turkey and Iran. The ratio of the E. granulosus s.s. G1 to G3 genotype was 3.2 in Turkey and 2 in Iran. The study also further confirmed that the nad5 gene properly differentiated the G1/G3 isolates of E. granulosus from both humans and livestock. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Toxocara canis and Toxascaris leonina are the most important ascaridoid nematodes of the family Toxocaridae. The present study was aimed to characterisation and analysis of genetic variation within and among T. canis and T. leonina isolates obtained from Iran by sequencing partial mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (pcox1) and partial NADH dehydrogenase subunit 1 (pnad1) genes. A total number of 134 adult nematodes belonging to Toxocaridae family were collected from stray dogs in Alborz province, Iran during 2015 and 2016. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed and products were sequenced. Sequences of two mitochondrial cox1 and nad1 genes were compared with other sequences in the GenBank, while multiple sequences alignment analysis was performed using the Bioedit and MEGA6 software and phylogenetic tree was plotted. For all isolates, amplicons of about 450 and 350 base pairs (bp) were successfully produced by PCR for cox1 and nad1, respectively. All sequences of T. canis isolates from present study were 100% homologous across the nad1 gene but not in the cox1 gene. The results indicate that the PCR method based on sequence of cox1 and nad1 genes is a suitable technique for the differentiation of T. canis and T. leonina species and that mtDNA regions could be used as genetic markers for the identification and differentiation of Toxocara species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here, we combined archived mitochondrial sequences for Ponto-Caspian gobiids with new sequences from the south Caspian basin to assess and evaluate its gobioid diversity and taxonomy, and to provide a first mitochondrial-based phylogenetic and phylogeographic framework. We demonstrate that: (i) Proterorhinus nasalis is the tubenose goby taxon in the saline waters of the southern Caspian Sea, whereas the name Pr. semipellucidus for the Azov/northern Caspian Sea/Volga River populations is likely be resurrected depending on the outcome of an integrative taxonomical approach; (ii) the deep-water goby Ponticola bathybius should be re-assigned to the genus Neogobius, as it is the sistergroup of N. melanostomus; (iii) specimens previously identified as Po. cyrius and Po. iljini from the south Caspian basin appear conspecific with Po. iranicus and Po. gorlap, respectively, and should be omitted from the checklist of Iranian and south Caspian freshwater fishes; (iv) the low stand of the Caspian Sea during the Tyurkyanian regression is inferred to have led to the isolation and evolution of Po. iranicus; and (v) similarities in genetic background, and invasion history of Rhinogobius sp. and Pseudorasbora parva in Iran and Turkmenistan indicate that the initial introduction of both species into the region possibly originated from Japan in the 1980s. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives Platelet activation occurs for a variety of reasons from the moment of sampling to that of injection. Activation of the platelets leads to activation of mitochondria. They move toward the membrane, sprouting and shedding freely from it, leading to the release of pro inflammatory mediators and mtDNA. Therefore, mtDNA level is considered as one of the parameters of platelet activity. The aim of this study was to compare mtDNA levels during storage. Materials and Methods This experimental study was performed on 22 PRP products. We obtained consent of all donors referring to Iran Innovation Center of Iranian Blood Transfusion Organization. Samples were taken from the PRP bags on day 1, 3 and 5. Then, the fold change of mtDNA was assessed by Real time PCR. The results were analyzed by paired t-test and the P value of less than 0.05 was considered significant. Results The rate of mtDNA decreased 0.8-fold on day 3 to 1, 0.6-fold on day 5 to 3, and 0 .49 on day 5 to 1. These changes were significant on days 5 to 1 (p= 0.003) and they were not significant on days 3 to 1 (p= 0.4). Conclusions The amount of mtDNA increased on the first day, and then decreased during the storage of PRP products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Annually, 1.2 million humans are stung by scorpions and severely affected by their venom. Some of the scorpion species of medical importance have a similar morphology to species with low toxicity. To establish diagnostic tools for surveying scorpions, the current study was conducted to generate three mitochondrial markers, Cytochrome Oxidase I (COI gene), 12S rDNA and 16S rDNA for six species of medically important Iranian scorpions: Androctonus crassicauda, Hottentotta saulcyi, Mesobuthus caucasicus, M. eupeus, Odontobuthus doriae, and Scorpio maurus. Results: Phylogenetic analyses of the obtained sequences corroborated the morphological identification. For the first time, 12S rDNA sequences are reported from Androctonus crassicauda, Hottentotta saulcyi, Mesobuthus caucasicus and M. eupeus and also the 16S rDNA sequence from Hottentotta saulcyi. We conclude that the mitochondrial markers are useful for species determination among these medically important species of scorpions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The geographical center of species diversity for sheep (Ovis aries) lies around several regions of Iraq and Iran. Therefore, it is necessary to explore the genetic relationships among these domesticated breeds and their maternal ancestors. This study was conducted to assess the mitochondrial D-loop genetic diversity in three breeds of Iraqi/Iranian prolific sheep, exhibiting clear differences in their geographical distributions and phenotypic traits. Five different SSCP-banding patterns were identified in Arabi, while only four distinct patterns were observed in both Karakul and Awassi sheep. One haplotype each in Karakul and Awassi was shared with Arabi. Sequencing reactions confirmed these patterns and validated the presence of 11 haplotypes and 16 variations distributed among studied populations. Arabi exhibited the maximum haplotype diversity, while Awassi exhibited the highest diversity of nucleotide polymorphism. The fixation index among populations showed a high sharing of genetic material among the investigated populations. The observed similar haplotypes showed the highest proportions in Arabi and Karakul and near the highest proportions in Awassi. In conclusion, higher nucleic acid variations were observed in the investigated Arabi and Awassi breeds than in the Karakul breed, signifying a potential role for D-loop-based genotyping in these differences in the three investigated ovine breeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Different phylogenetic lineages of animals may show variability in sperm traits. It was recently suggested that Iranian marsh frogs, until now assigned to Pelophylax ridibundus, form two distinct mitochondrial (mtDNA) clades. While the first clade, distributed in western Iran, may be attributed to the species Pelophylax bedriagae, the second clade found in the northern and eastern parts of the country most likely forms a distinct taxonomic entity at species rank. In this study, we examined the differences in spermatozoa size (head, tail and total length) between two populations of water frogs belonging to these distinct mtDNA clades. We observed significant differences in sperm head and tail, as well as differences in the ratio of head and tail to total length between the two studied populations. A significant positive correlation was found between tail length and total length but not between head length and total length. We concluded that the two studied populations of water frogs in Iran are distinguished by sperm characteristics consisting of spermatozoa head and tail length. These variation could be the result of sperm competition or relaxed sexual selection for obtaining an optimal sperm phenotype. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents the first molecular evidence of Macrovipera razii from central Zagros, more than 300 km north-west of its prior records in southern Iran. Molecular analyses based on mitochondrial cytochrome b sequences identified the individuals from central Zagros as a lineage of M. razii. Specimens from the new localities are separated by a genetic distance of 1.46% from the known populations of M. razii. The results extend the known distribution range of M. razii as an endemic species of Iran. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Accumulating evidence indicates that mitochondrial dysfunction is considered an effective factor in the formation or development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) although the underlying mechanisms of the changes are still unclear. Objectives: The aim of the study was to determine the 4977-bp deletion levels and variations in the displacement (D) loop region of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) in NAFLD patients. Methods: In this case-control study, 43 NAFLD patients and 156 controls were enrolled. The blood DNA of 43 patients with NAFLD and 156 healthy individuals was investigated to determine the 4977-bp deletion and sequence changes in the D-loop region using methods such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR), multiplex PCR, and DNA sequencing. Results: The results indicated that no 4977-bp deletion was found in any of the samples. 94 variations were found in the D-loop region including two deletions, four insertions, and 88 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP), 16 of which were just found in patients. There was a significant difference between the NAFLD patients and controls in six variants (P < 0.05). Two novel insertions (16171 ins T and 16221 ins C) were observed in patients. Finally, the results revealed no statistically significant difference (P > 0.05) in C variations in D310 mitochondrial DNA between the two groups. Conclusions: According to the findings, we believe that the disease damages the mitochondrial DNA and leads to the formation of these mutations. Our results also showed that D-loop alterations are frequent in NAFLD and may play a significant role in the progression of NAFLD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we present an integrative systematic revision of the spider gecko, Agamura senso lato, in Iran. We sampled 56 geckos of this complex from its distributional range in Iran and western Pakistan and sequenced these for two mitochondrial markers, cytochrome b and 12S ribosomal RNA, and one nuclear marker, melano-cortin 1 receptor. We combined our molecular data with species distribution modelling and morphological examinations to clarify Agamura persica systematics and biogeography. Due to a lack of published data, we used only our data to investigate the spatial and temporal origin of spider geckos within a complete geographic and phylogenetic context. The phylogenetic analyses confirm the monophyly of Agamura. Among spider geckos, Rhinogekko diverged around the early-mid Miocene (17 Mya) from the Lut Block, and then Cyrtopodion diverged from the Agamura clade about 15 Mya in the mid-Miocene as a result of the uplifting of the Zagros Mountains. Subsequent radiation across the Iranian Plateau took place during the mid-Pliocene. Agamura kermanensis exhibits deep divergence from two other species of Agamura (A. persica and A. cruralis), whereas no geographical substructure was observed on the Iranian Plateau for A. persica and A. cruralis. Our findings reveal that diversification is consistent with a biogeographical model explained by different dispersal waves and vicariant events on the Iranian Plateau during the last 18 Mya. The divergence times between clades are compatible with orogenic events in southern Iran that resulted from the collision with Arabia. According to the genetic differentiation of both mtDNA genes (12S and cytochrome b), the systematic status of A. cruralis is confirmed, the new clade was distinguished from the genus Agamura, monophyly of Rhinogekko was confirmed and the allocation of Cyrtopodion gastrophole to the Cyrtopodion clade was confirmed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Iranian taxa of the tribe Scopulini are taxonomically revised. The systematic positions of the genera Cinglis Guene, 1858, Glossotrophia Prout, 1913, Pseudocinglis Hausmann, 1994 and Scopuloides Hausmann, 1994, with uncertain validity and/or position within the tribe Scopulini Duponchel, 1845 (Lepidoptera: Sterrhinae), are further elucidated by use of one mitochondrial and up to nine protein-coding nuclear gene regions. Available type specimens of the described species and more than 2,600 additional specimens were morphologically investigated. In addition, over 400 genitalia preparations were made and examined together with distribution data and DNA barcodes. As a result of the multi-gene analysis, the genera Cinglis stat. rev. and Scopuloides stat. rev. are re-validated at the genus level. The genus Pseudocinglis syn. nov. is regarded as a junior synonym of the genus Cinglis stat. rev. and Glossotrophia syn. nov. is regarded as a junior synonym of the genus Scopula. Cinglis eurata (Prout, 1913) comb. nov. and Cinglis benigna (Brandt, 1941) comb. nov. are combined with the genus Cinglis. Additionally, Cinglis benigna amseli (Wiltshire, 1967) syn. nov. is regarded as a synonym of C. benigna. Scopula adulteraria (Erschov, 1874) stat. nov. is raised from subspecies to species rank; Scopula iranaria Bytinski-Salz & Brandt, 1937 syn. nov. is synonymized with S. flaccidaria (Zeller, 1852); S. transcaspica taftanica Brandt, 1941 syn. nov. is synonymized with S. transcaspica Prout, 1935; S. diffinaria asiatica (Brandt, 1938) syn. nov. is synonymized with S. diffinaria (Prout, 1913) and Glossotrophia bullata Vojnits, 1986 syn. nov. is synonymized with Scopula sacraria ariana (Ebert, 1965). The female genitalia of Scopula lactarioides Brandt, 1941 are described and illustrated for the first time. In total, the presence of 33 species of Scopulini in Iran is confirmed. Wing patterns, male and female genitalia and diagnostic characters of most Iranian Scopulini species are depicted and their distribution ranges are mapped.

Background: One of the deadliest types of liver cancer is hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The current treatment methods show poor tolerance and low efficacy. Phallusia nigra (P. nigra) is a kind of sea squirt or marine tunicate that lives in tropical seas around the world. As a marine animal, it contains natural bioactive products. It has been shown that P. nigra has some biological properties, including anti-inflammatory property. Objectives: In this study, we examined the selective toxicity of methanolic extracts obtained from body and wall of Persian Gulf P. nigra on isolated mitochondria obtained from liver hepatocytes of hepatocellular carcinoma-induced rats. Methods: For induction of HCC, the rats were injected with a single dose of diethyl nitrosamine (DEN) at 200 mg/kg, followed by dietary administration of 2-acetylaminofluorene (2-AAF) (0.02%) for 14 days. Then, the HCC induction was approved by histopatho-logical evaluations, liver function markers (ALT, AST, and ALP), and determination of blood levels of liver cancer specific marker, i.e. alpha-fetoprotein (AFP). At the end, mitochondria isolated from cancerous and normal hepatocytes were applied for subsequent investigations. Results: Our results showed that different concentrations (250,500, and 1000 µg/mL) of both extracts (from body and wall) significantly induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation, promoted mitochondrial swelling, decreased mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), and increased cytochrome c release only in HCC hepatocyte mitochondria in a time and concentration dependent manner. No significant change in the above mentioned parameters was observed in the control hepatocyte mitochondria. Conclusions: Our results suggest that bioactive compounds of P. nigra could be promising anti-HCC molecules. However, further studies are needed including molecular identification tests, confirmatory in vivo experiments, and clinical trials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Several recent studies have shown that mitochondrial DNA mutations lead to major disabilities and premature death in carriers. More than 150 mutations in human mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) genes have been associated with a wide spectrum of disorders. Varicocele, one of the causes of infertility in men wherein abnormal inflexion and distension of veins of the pampiniform plexus is observed within spermatic cord, can increase reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in semen and cause oxidative stress and sperm dysfunction in patients. Given that mitochondria are the source of ROS production in cells, the aim of this study was to scan nine mitochondrial genes (MT-COX2, MT-tRNALys, MT-ATP8, MT-ATP6, MT-COX3, MT-tRNAGly, MT-ND3, MT-tRNAArg and MT-ND4L) for mutations in infertile patients with varicocele. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, polymerase chain reaction-single strand conformation polymorphism (PCR-SSCP) and DNA sequencing were used to detect and identify point mutations respectively in 9 mitochondrial genes in 72 infertile men with varicocele and 159 fertile men. In brief, the samples showing altered electrophoretic patterns of DNA in the SSCP gel were sent for DNA sequencing to identify the exact nucleotide variation. Results: Ten type nucleotide variants were detected exclusively in mitochondrial DNA of infertile men. These include six novel nucleotide changes and four variants previously reported for other disorders. Conclusion: Mutations in mitochondrial genes may affect respiratory complexes in combination with environmental risk factors. Therefore these nucleotide variants probably lead to impaired ATP synthesis and mitochondrial function ultimately interfering with sperm motility and infertility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Distribution of mitochondrial oxidative energy metabolism is a characteristic of cardiomyocyte dysfunction and congenital familial and sporadic heart diseases. Several studies have indicated that mutations in mitochondrial DNA, particularly in tRNAs and MT-CYB coding for cytochrome B in complex III (CIII), were associated with cardiologic disorders. We hypothesized that mutations in these positions might play an important causal or modifying role in congenital heart defects. Congenital Heart Diseases (CHDs) are the most common anomaly in newborns and the leading non-infectious cause of mortality in the first year of life. These defects are multifactorial complex diseases resulting from both genetic predisposition and environmental risk factors. Despite advances in molecular medicine, the genetic mechanism underlying mitochondrial genetic determinants of development of CHD has remained poorly understood. Objectives: The present study aimed to identify the association between mitochondrial mutations in tRNAGlu and Cytb genes and CHD in Iranian patients. Materials and Methods: In this case-control study, tRNAGlu and MT-CYB genes were analyzed in DNA isolated from peripheral blood of 84 Iranian pediatric patients with non-familial CHD and 72 controls for alterations. The cases and healthy controls were matched regarding age and gender. Results: A total of three nucleotide variations were detected by Polymerase Chain Reaction-Single-Strand Conformation Polymorphism (PCR-SSCP) and sequencing. One of them was located in tRNAGlu (A14696T) found in a child with tetralogy of fallot and ventricular septal defect, which was assessed as a pathogen mutation. The second mutation was a homoplasmic variant (m.l4766C > T) in cytb gene and was not detected in the healthy controls.This variant altered an amino acid (T7I) with moderately interspecific amino acid conservation indicative of the functional importance of the residue. Finally, a homoplasmic synonymous variation (T14783C) was observed in 70.4% of the CHD patients. Conclusions: The results suggested that mitochondrial mutations might be associated with CHD in Iranian pediatric patients. Thus, more patients with CHD should be examined for mutations in mtDNA in order to clarify the role of variants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cardiomyopathy is one of the major complications of cirrhosis. Free radical scavenging and antioxidant substances can reduce cardiomyopathy and cardiovascular mortality of cirrhosis. Caffeic Acid Phenethyl Ester (CAPE) is one of the major compounds of polyphenols with anti-inflammatory and free-radical scavenging activities. Objectives: The present study aimed to identify the association between mitochondrial mutations in tRNAGlu and Cytb genes and CHD in Iranian patients. Materials and Methods: In this study, thirty male Sprague-Dawley rats (200 - 250 g) were divided into three groups (sham, cirrhotic, and cirrhotic treated with CAPE). CAPE was administrated (1 µg/kg/day, ip) for 5 weeks. Bile Duct Ligation (BDL) was applied in order to induce cirrhosis. Five weeks after surgery, left ventricular function was evaluated by Langendorff system, and data of the sham group were considered as ventricular function before the BDL surgery. For histopathological evaluation also, livers of all the rats were removed and processed for light microscopy. Then, all the serum biochemical parameters were measured. After all, the data were entered into the SPSS statistical software, version 18 and were analyzed using one-way ANOVA followed by LSD test. The data were presented as mean ± SEM and P < 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. Results: The maximum rate of increase and decrease in ventricular pressure (± dp.dt-1), which was reduced by cirrhosis (P < 0.001) improved significantly by CAPE (P < 0.001). Conclusions: The findings indicated that CAPE improved the left ventricular function in cirrhotic rats. Thus, it may be considered to be a new therapeutic approach in future cirrhotic cardiomyopathy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To investigate the level of correlation between large-scale deletions of the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) with defective sperm function. Materials and Methods: In this analytic study, a total of 25 semen samples of the normozoospermic infertile men from North of Iran were collected from the IVF center in an infertility clinic. The swim-up procedure was performed for the separation of spermatozoa into two groups; (normal motility group and abnormal motility group) by 2.0 ml of Ham’s F-10 medium and 1.0 ml of semen. After total DNA extraction, a long-range polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique was used to determine the mtDNA deletions in human spermatozoa. Results: The products of PCR analysis showed a common 4977 bp deletion and a novel 4866 bp deletion (flanked by a seven-nucleotide direct repeat of 5΄-ACCCCCT-3΄ within the deleted area) from the mtDNA of spermatozoa in both groups. However, the frequency of mtDNA deletions in abnormal motility group was significantly higher than the normal motility group (56, and 24% for 4866 bp-deleted mtDNA and, 52, and 28% for 4977 bp-deleted mtDNA, respectively). Conclusion: It is suggested that large-scale deletions of the mtDNA is associated with poor sperm motility and may be a causative factor in the decline of fertility in men. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Pancreatic islets have fewer antioxidant enzymes than other tissues and thus are vulnerable to oxidative stress. In the present study, the effects of nine specifically selected Iranian medical plants on the mitochondria function and survival of isolated rat islets were examined. Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, following laparotomy, pancreases of rats were removed and the islets isolated and incubated in vitro for 24 hours. Logarithmic doses of plant materials were added to the islets and incubated for an additional 24 hours after which the viability of the cells and production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) were measured. Levels of insulin production in relation to static and stimulated glucose concentrations were also determined. Results: The tested compounds markedly increased survival of the islet cells, their mitochondrial activity, and insulin levels at the same time as reducing production of ROS. Greatest effects were observed in the following order: Peganum harmala, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Satureja hortensis, Rosmarinus officinalis, Teucrium scordium, Aloe vera, Zingiber officinale, Silybum marianum, and Hypericum perforatum at doses of 10, 103, 104, 10, 102, 102, 10-1, 10 and 103 μgmL-1, respectively. Conclusion: Based on these results, we suggest that pretreatment with these selected Iranian medical plants can improve the outcomes of pancreas transplants and grafts through the control of oxidative stress damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydatidosis, caused by Echinococcus granulosus is one of the most important zoonotic diseases, throughout most parts of the world. Hydatidosis is endemic in Iran and responsible for approximately 1% of admission to surgical wards. There are extensive genetic variations within E. granulosus and 10 different genotypes (G1-G10) within this parasite have been reported. Identification of strains is important for improvement of control and prevention of the disease. No new review article presented the situation of Echinococcus granulosus genotypes in Iran in the recent years; therefore in this paper we reviewed the different studies regarding Echinococcus granulosus genotypes in Iran. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Fat dormouse is a squirrel-like rodent which is closely tied to deciduous forest ecosystem in southwestern Eurasia. As such it is a valuable indicator of forest survival in refugia during glacial-interglacial periods. Previous phylogeographic analyses uncovered divergent fat dormouse lineages in southern refugia in Italy and the Balkans, but retrieved a surprisingly low overall genetic diversity across the majority of the species’ range. We explored 812bp long fragment of a cytochrome b (cyt b) gene in ten fat dormice from refugial Hyrcanian forests in northern Iran. We identified 10 new cyt b haplotypes, which generated a total dataset of 28 fat dormouse haplotypes. The phylogenetic reconstruction clustered the new haplotypes into the Iranian lineage which hold a sister position against all other fat dormouse haplotypes from Europe and Asia Minor. The divergence between these lineages suggests a fragmentation event of an ancestral population at 5.76mya (95% HPD=3.21–8.92). This early evolutionary divergence was possibly triggered in the Middle East by dramatically divergent environmental conditions at the Messinian Salinity Crisis. The divergence clearly exceeds the intraspecific divergence, and is well within the range between congeneric rodent species. We suggest a long-term persistence of the Iranian lineage in the Hyrcanian refugium which is consitent with a high number of endemics along the southern Caspian coastal areas. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

From ancient times to the present-day animal venoms had been used as medicinal and therapeutic agents. Recently it has been reported that the scorpion venom is a potential source of active and therapeutic compounds to design potent drugs against variety of cancerous cells and other diseases. The current study aimed to evaluate the selective toxicity of Iranian Mesobuthus eupeus (IMe) crude venom as a potential source of anticancer compounds on cancerous CLL B-lymphocytes and normal lymphocytes. For this purpose, we isolated cancerous CLL B-lymphocytes and normal lymphocytes from chronic lymphocytic leukemia patients and healthy volunteers. Cancerous CLL B-lymphocytes and normal lymphocytes were treated with different concentration (0, 5, 10, 20, 40 and 80 µg/ml) of IMe crude venom for 12 hours and cytotoxicity, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, collapse of mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and lysosomal membrane integrity were determined. The data demonstrated the significant cytotoxic effect of IMe crude venom on cancerous CLL B-lymphocytes, with a concentration value (IC50) that inhibits 50% of the cell viability of 60 µg/ ml after 12 h of incubation. MTT assay proved that the IMe crude venom is selectively toxic to cancerous CLL B-lymphocytes, and IMe crude venom induced selective cell death via activation of ROS formation and mitochondrial/lysosomal dysfunction. These finding showed that IMe crude venom has a selective mitochondrial/lysosomal-mediated cell death effect on cancerous CLL B-lymphocytes. Therefore, the IMe crude venom and its fractions may be promising in the future anticancer drug development for treatment of CLL and variety of cancers.

Mitochondrial genes have more power than nuclear genes in reconstructing phylogenetic relationships among closely related species because of their faster sequence evolution. The aim of this study was to use the complete or near-complete sequences from three mitochondrial genes (cox1, nad1 and atp6) and partial sequences of the 12S rRNA gene to infer relationships among isolates of Echinococcus granulosus from Iran. Two hundred and twenty-nine isolates of E. granulosus were collected from cattle, camels, sheep, buffalo and goats from different geographical areas. Most individuals were found to possess the G1 genotype but some of the camel samples belonged to the G6 genotype. Newly designed primers for cox1, nad1 and atp6 genes amplified bands of 1830, 708 and 1157 bp for the G1 genotype and 1856, 705, 1054 bp for the G6 genotype, respectively. The result of this survey showed that atp6 and nad1 genes are good molecular markers for identifying E. granulosus isolates from a range of hosts in Iran. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Echinococcus granulosus, the aetiologic agent of cystic echinococcosis (CE), is one of the most important zoonotic helminthes worldwide. Isolates of the parasite show considerable genetic variation in different intermediate hosts. Several genotypes and species are described in different eco-epidemiological settings. This study investigated E. granulosus genotypes existing in livestock and humans from the province of Kerman, located in south-eastern Iran, using sequencing data of cox1 and nad1 mitochondrial genes. Fifty-eight E. granulosus isolates, including 35 from sheep, 11 from cattle, 9 from camels and 3 from goats, were collected from slaughterhouses throughout Kerman. One human isolate was obtained from a surgical case of CE. Mitochondrial cox1 and nad1 regions were amplified using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and 38 isolates were sequenced. Genotypes G1 (73.7%), G3 (13.2%) and G6 (13.1%) were identified from the isolates. G1 was the most common genotype from sheep (86.7%), cattle (80%), camels (44.4%) and goats (100%). Sheep, cattle and camels were also found to be infected with the G3 genotype (buffalo strain). The human isolate was identified as the G6 genotype. Results showed that the G3 genotype occurred in different animal hosts in addition to G1 and G6 genotypes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Friedreich ataxia (FRDA) is an inherited recessive disorder. Mitochondrial DNA is a candidate modifying factor for FRDA. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between the tRNALeu (CUN) 12308 A> G mutation and age of onset in Friedreich ataxia. Materials & Methods: The 12308 A> G substitution in mitochondrial tRNALeu (CUN) was examined in DNA samples from 30 Friedreich ataxia patients and 48 control subjects by temporal temperature gradient gel electrophoresis (TTGE) and sequencing. Logistic regression was used to determine of cutoff age of onset. Results: Twenty-two patients had the 12308 A> G mutation, and we found that its overall prevalence was significantly higher in 20 patients aged 17 years or younger than in 2 patients aged over 17 years (90% versus 10%). The 12308 A> G mutation lies in a region that has been highly conserved between species. Conclusion: Our results show that the 12308 A > G mutation is associated with earlier age of onset in Friedreich ataxia. Thus, this mutation might cause the younger age of onset in FRDA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chronic progressive external ophthalmoplagia (CPEO) is a phenotypic mitochondrial disorder that affects external ocular and skeletal muscles and is associated with a single or multiple mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) deletions and also nuclear gene mutations. There are also some reports about the relationship between CPEO and the nuclear Twinkle gene which encodes a kind of mitochondrial protein called Twinkle.Aims: To study the mtDNA deletions and Twinkle gene G1423C point mutation in Iranian patients with CPEO.Materials and Methods: We collected 23 muscle samples from patients with CPEO, 9 women (mean age 34.3 years) and 14 men (36.7 years). Multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method was used to find the presence of single or multiple deletions in mtDNA. Single stranded conformational polymorphism (SSCP) and restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) methods were carried out to investigate point mutation (G1423C) in the Twinkle gene in all DNA samples.Results: Different sizes of mtDNA deletions were detected in 16 patients (69.6%). Each of the 5.5, 7, 7.5 and 9 kb deletions existed only in 1 patient. Common deletion (4977bp) and 8 kb deletion were detected in 5 and 3 patients respectively. Multiple deletions were also present in 4 patients. Out of 23 patients included in our study, two cases (8.7%) had Twinkle gene mutation (G1423C) and 5 patients (21.7%) did not show any deletions in mtDNA or the Twinkle gene mutation.Conclusion: Our study provides evidence that the investigation of mtDNA and Twinkle gene mutations in CPEO may help with early diagnosis and prevention of the disease. Patients who did not show deletions in the mtDNA or G1423C mutation in the Twinkle gene may have other mtDNA, Twinkle or nuclear gene mutations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hypothesis that mitochondrial genes may implicate susceptibility to multiple sclerosis (MS) is supported by an increasing number of case reports on Leber’s hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON)-associated mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) point mutations in patients with MS. A number of mtDNA mutations with primary pathogenic significance for LHON, a maternally inherited disease causing severe bilateral visual loss predominantly in young men, have been detected in patients with an MS-like phenotype. To evaluate the link between MS and LHON primary point mutations, we investigated 31 non-related Iranian clinically definite MS patients (23 females and 8 males) with optic nerve involvement, as well as 25 patients (16 females and 9 males) without involvement of the optic nerve as controls. Three patients had severe bilateral visual loss without any recovery. We searched for the presence of LHON mitochondrial mutations at nucleotide positions (np) 11,778, 3,460, and 14,484 by mutation-specific polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism. Our results suggest that there is no association between Iranian patients with MS and mtDNA point mutations at np 11,778, 3,460, and 14,484. Copyright © 2004 S. Karger AG, Basel [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Iran, Phlebotomus papatasi (Scopoli) (Diptera: Psychodidae) is the main vector of Leishmania major Yakimoff & Schokhor (Kinetoplastida: Trypanosomatidae), the causative agent of rural zoonotic cutaneous leishmaniasis. This sandfly is abundant both in villages and in the burrows of the main reservoir host, the gerbil Rhombomys opimus (Licht.) (Rodentia: Gerbillidae). Populations of P. papatasi were sampled from the edges of villages in Isfahan province, using CDC miniature light traps in peridomestic sites and sticky papers placed at the entrances to gerbil burrows. Single peridomestic sites in two northern provinces were also sampled. Individual sandflies were characterized by PCR amplification and sequencing of fragments of their mitochondrial cytochrome b gene and of the wsp gene of endosymbiotic Wolbachia pipientis Hertig (alpha-Proteobacteria: Rickettsiaceae). The distributions of the haplotypes of these two maternally inherited genes were analysed to assess the population differentiation of P. papatasi, knowledge of which will be needed for planning control measures. For the first time these markers were used to characterize P. papatasi from gerbil burrows, and they indicated the absence not only of sympatric cryptic species but also of any long-term differentiation of lineages in different habitats. A single lineage of cytochrome b haplotypes was found, and both sexes in all populations had a high infection rate of the same A-group strain of Wolbachia (wPap). The distributions of cytochrome b haplotypes were consistent with females dispersing more than males, which has been reported for P. papatasi in other countries. The widespread distribution of wPap suggests that Wolbachia could be used to spread transgenes between populations of P. papatasi in different habitats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Five new species of Glyptothorax are described from Iran. Glyptothorax alidaeii, new species, from the Seimare in the Karkheh drainage, G. galaxias, new species, from the upper Karun drainage, G. hosseinpanahii, new species, from the Zohreh drainage, G. pallens, new species, from the Sirvan drainage, and G. shapuri, new species, from Shapur in the Helleh drainage. Glyptothorax silviae from the Jarrahi drainage is re-diagnosed. All six species are morphologically distinguishable by the structure of the thoracic adhesive apparatus, as well as morphometric characters and details in the colour pattern. They form distinct mitochondrial clades between 1.2% and 4.1% minimum K2P distance based on the mitochondrial DNA barcode region.

Background: Multiple Mitochondrial Dysfunctions Syndrome 4 (MMDS4) is manifested as a result of ISCA2 mutations. ISCA2 is a vital component of 4Fe-4S clusters assembly machine. Therefore, in MMDS4 patients, deficient mitochondrial respiratory chain complexes I and II, Aconitase and Succinate dehydrogenase of Kerbs cycle and Lipoic Acid Synthetase in the biosynthesis of lipoic acid are expected., Case Presentations: A 7 months boy in an Iranian consanguineous family with progressive neurodegenerative problems was referred to us. Primarily, general laboratory tests, Abdomen ultrasonography and brain magnetic resonance imaging were performed. In order to find out the genetic problem in this case Whole Exome Sequencing (WES) following by Sanger sequencing was carried out. A novel variant (c.355G > A, p.Ala119Thr) in ISCA2 gene was identified by WES in the proband. Confirmation and segregation in the family for this variant was performed by Sanger sequencing. In-Silico prediction of the ISCA2 secondary structure showed that a helix motif in the Fe-S biosynthesis domain of ISCA2 protein will be eliminated as a result of this variant., Conclusions: We reported the first patient with ISCA2 variant in Iranian population and the third one in the world reported for ISCA2 gene, so far associated with early-onset mitochondrial neurodegeneration. However further functional studies on this variant or finding it in other patients with similar clinical problems are needed to confirm the pathogenicity of this variant.