Background: Breast cancer, one of the most common and lethal cancers in women, faces multiple therapeutic challenges, including side effects and the lack of selectivity of conventional drugs. In this regard, Nigella sativa, due to its numerous bioactive compounds and proven therapeutic properties, has emerged as a promising candidate for cancer treatment. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the anticancer effects and toxicity of aqueous and hydroalcoholic extracts of N. sativa on human breast cancer (MCF-7) cells and normal human dermal fibroblasts (HDF). Methods: Aqueous and hydroalcoholic extracts of N. sativa were prepared, and their compound profiles were determined using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Cytotoxicity was evaluated using the MTT assay across a concentration range of 6.25 to 6400 µg/mL after 24 hours of treatment. Statistical analysis was performed using ANOVA with a significance level of P < 0.05. Results: The results demonstrated that the effects of the extracts were dependent on their type, concentration, and the nature of the target cells. The aqueous extract significantly reduced the viability of HDF cells at concentrations of 100 µg/mL and above, while its significant anticancer effect on MCF-7 cells began only at 400 µg/mL and above. The hydroalcoholic extract exhibited a dual effect: At low concentrations (12.5 - 50 µg/mL), it increased the viability of normal cells, whereas at high concentrations, it decreased it. This extract also showed a dual effect on cancer cells, increasing their viability at very low concentrations (6.25 and 12.5 µg/mL) and significantly reducing it only at a high concentration (800 µg/mL) (P < 0.05). Conclusions: The findings indicate that although N. sativa extracts possess concentration-dependent anti-proliferative potential, they lack the desired therapeutic selectivity, as concentrations effective against cancer cells also impose significant toxicity on normal cells. These results underscore the pharmacological complexity of the response and highlight the need for future studies to optimize dosage and formulation for the safe and effective exploitation of this potential.
Background: Dust storms are natural phenomena in which soil particles are transported in large quantities from one area and deposited in other areas. This phenomenon has adverse effects on the life and health status of individuals. Objectives: Considering the importance of this issue, the present study was conducted with the aim of determining the frequency distribution of respiratory diseases caused by fine dust and dust in the Sistan region. Methods: The present descriptive cross-sectional study was performed on patients referred to Amir Al-Momenin Hospital in Zabol with complaints of respiratory problems due to dust storms. Data related to air index pollutants and dust storms were collected from the Sistan Meteorological Center. A researcher-made questionnaire was used to collect information, and its validity was confirmed through content validity with the opinions of approved experts. SPSS V22 software was used for data analysis. Results: In the present study, 71 patients were studied. In this study, 57.7% (41 people) of the participants were female. Most of the participants (52.1%) were engaged in agriculture and/or animal husbandry. Also, 47.9% of the patients stated that they had a laborer's job. In this study, the frequency distribution of various underlying diseases among the participants indicated that chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (35.2%), hypertension (35.2%), and diabetes (25.4%) were among the most common underlying diseases in the patients studied. Conclusions: The findings of this study indicate that exposure to excessive dust causes a significant increase in the symptoms of respiratory diseases and a significant decrease in lung function parameters. Therefore, to reduce or eliminate the prevalence of these symptoms, plans should be made to reduce the amount of dust in the area.
Background: Schrenkiella parvula is a halophyte capable of maintaining root growth under salt stress, making it a valuable model for studying stress adaptation. The glucose-TOR signaling pathway regulates root development in Arabidopsis; however, its role in extremophytes such as S. parvula under saline conditions remains poorly understood. This study investigated TOR-related gene regulation in S. parvula using gene co-expression network analysis. Objectives: This study aimed to identify key gene modules and hub genes downstream of the glucose-TOR signaling pathway that contribute to the maintenance of root growth under salt stress in S. parvula. Methods: A set of TOR-regulated genes in Arabidopsis roots was used to identify orthologs in S. parvula. RNA-seq data from salt-stressed S. parvula roots were normalized using DESeq2. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was performed on 1,858 genes to identify modules correlated with salt stress. Hub genes were identified based on high module membership (kME) values and visualized using Cytoscape. Results: Seven co-expression modules were identified. The green module showed the strongest correlation with salt stress and contained six hub genes associated with cell division and expansion, cell wall modification, detoxification, and osmotic balance. Conclusions: S. parvula may maintain root growth under salinity through the activation of TOR-regulated genes. The identified green module supports cellular and metabolic adaptation. Key genes, such as MEI2-like and expansin, may sustain root development, whereas other genes may contribute to detoxification and osmotic balance. These results provide potential targets for improving stress tolerance in crops.
Background: Cervical cancer is associated with a relatively high mortality rate in women. Conventional therapies often cause significant adverse effects, highlighting the need for novel treatments with improved safety and efficacy. Objectives: Considering that epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) has anticancer effects in various malignancies, this study evaluated the impacts of EGCG on cervical cancer cells, with emphasis on identifying the mechanism of action. Methods: After culture, HeLa and CaSki cells were exposed to a range of EGCG concentrations. The MTT assay was used to assess cell viability, and flow cytometry was used for apoptosis. Finally, using designed primers, expression levels of bax, CASP3, p53, bcl-2, CASP9, and EGFR were quantified by qRT-PCR. Results: The EGCG decreased cell viability in both cervical cancer cell lines and increased apoptosis. Notably, at 40 and 80 μg/mL, EGCG upregulated pro-apoptotic genes (bax, p53, CASP3, CASP9) and downregulated anti-apoptotic bcl-2 and EGFR expression. Conclusions: Our findings indicate that EGCG exerts anticancer activity against cervical cancer cell lines, at least in part, by activating the intrinsic mitochondrial apoptosis pathway as well as inhibiting proliferative signaling. Further mechanistic research is needed to determine the full spectrum of EGCG’s actions in cervical cancer.
Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is among the most prevalent endocrine-metabolic disorders impacting individuals capable of conception. Its clinical management poses a significant challenge, particularly for those facing infertility and seeking conception through assisted reproductive technology (ART). While metformin is a cornerstone therapy, its limitations necessitate the exploration of novel combinations. Objectives: This research was conducted to assess and compare the treatment outcomes of two fixed-dose combination drugs — empagliflozin plus metformin and linagliptin plus metformin — and metformin as a single agent against an inert placebo in infertile women with PCOS scheduled for intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), aiming to identify a superior metabolic priming strategy to potentially improve the reproductive milieu prior to ART. Methods: Eighty infertile women with PCOS were randomly assigned over an 8-week period to one of four groups receiving either empagliflozin-metformin, linagliptin-metformin, metformin, or a placebo. Anthropometric, metabolic, and hormonal assessments were performed for participants in all groups two months before the ovulation induction cycle and on the day of oocyte aspiration. The primary outcome was the change in serum anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) level. Key secondary outcomes included changes in fasting insulin, body weight, lipid profile, and other hormonal parameters (testosterone, leptin). Results: Significant decreases in body weight, Body Mass Index (BMI), and waist measurement were observed in the group receiving empagliflozin-metformin relative to the placebo group (P < 0.05). While insulin levels decreased in all active treatment groups, fasting blood sugar reduction was exclusive to the empagliflozin-metformin group. This group also demonstrated significant improvements in lipid profile (total cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein [LDL]) and hormonal parameters (testosterone, leptin, anti-Müllerian hormone) compared to both placebo and metformin monotherapy. Empagliflozin-metformin showed statistically significant superiority over linagliptin-metformin in reducing body weight (mean difference: -1.72 kg, 95% CI: -3.21 to -0.23; P = 0.019), triglycerides (mean difference: -3.35 mg/dL, 95% CI: -6.12 to -0.58; P = 0.013), anti-Müllerian hormone (mean difference: -0.62 ng/mL, 95% CI: -1.15 to -0.09; P = 0.018), and leptin levels (mean difference: -0.79 ng/mL, 95% CI: -1.45 to -0.13; P = 0.015). Conclusions: Combination therapy with empagliflozin-metformin demonstrates superior metabolic and hormonal benefits compared to metformin alone and linagliptin-metformin in infertile women with PCOS, suggesting its potential as a preferred treatment option before assisted reproductive technology.
Introduction: Natural dyes derived from plants have gained significant attention due to their safety compared to chemical dyes. These dyes possess antibacterial properties and have minimal environmental impact. Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Cochrane, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases. The search utilized all available MeSH terms related to medicinal plants, dyes, wool, and antimicrobial properties of plants, covering the period from 2009 to 2020. Results: The findings indicate that numerous plants possess both coloring and antimicrobial properties, although they are currently utilized in limited quantities. Conclusions: The present study aims to introduce plants with antimicrobial and coloring properties for further study.
Context: Breast cancer (BC) is the most prevalent malignancy among women worldwide and represents a major public health concern. In 2020, approximately 2.3 million new cases were reported globally. Despite advances in diagnostic and therapeutic approaches, BC remains a complex disease with significant clinical and survivorship challenges. Objectives: This study aims to provide an overview of BC by summarizing its biological hallmarks, major risk factors, diagnostic approaches, treatment modalities, and the long-term needs of BC survivors. Data Sources: Relevant information was obtained from previously published scientific literature, epidemiological reports, and clinical studies addressing BC biology, diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship. Study Selection: Studies focusing on the incidence, molecular characteristics, risk factors, diagnostic methods, treatment strategies, and survivorship issues related to BC were considered. Data Extraction: Key data regarding BC hallmarks, associated risk factors, diagnostic tools, treatment options, and post-treatment needs were extracted and synthesized narratively. Results: Breast cancer is characterized by six major hallmarks, including evasion of programmed cell death, unlimited proliferative capacity, enhanced angiogenesis, resistance to growth-inhibitory signals, self-sufficiency in growth signaling, and metastatic potential. Identified risk factors include female sex, increasing age, family history, estrogen exposure, tobacco use, alcohol consumption, high-fat diet, and lifestyle factors. Diagnosis relies on physical examination, imaging techniques — particularly mammography — and tissue sampling, with image-guided core needle biopsy playing a central role. Treatment typically involves a multimodal approach combining surgery, chemotherapy (CT), radiotherapy, targeted therapy, and hormonal therapy, with more advanced disease requiring more intensive treatment. Survivors often face ongoing physical, psychological, and long-term health challenges. Conclusions: Although significant progress has been made in the diagnosis and treatment of BC, it remains a multifaceted disease requiring comprehensive management. In addition to effective therapeutic strategies, addressing the long-term physical and emotional needs of BC survivors is essential to improve overall outcomes and quality of life.
Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease of the central nervous system (CNS). The Interferon beta (IFN-β) therapy is one of the best ways to reduce the recurrence disease. However, response to IFN-β treatment may be related to genetic factors. The glutamate ionotropic receptor AMPA type subunit 3 (GRIA3) gene that located on Xq25_26, encodes a protein play a role in the genetic susceptibility of a variety of mental disorders. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the association between GRIA3 rs12557782 polymorphism and resistance to IFN-β treatment in Iranian MS patients, specifically focusing on patients from Qazvin province with distinct genetic and environmental characteristics. Methods: In this clinical study, 155 Iranian patients with MS were selected based on the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) and the number of disease relapses over six months. They were divided into responders and non-responders groups to IFN-β treatment. Variations of rs12557782 polymorphism in GRIA3 and its relation to the treatment of patients with IFN-β drugs was evaluated by PCR-RFLP technique and restriction enzyme DraII. Results: No significant correlation was found between response to treatment with IFN-β drugs and polymorphism of rs12557782 in GRIA3. Conclusions: No significant association was observed between GRIA3 rs12557782 polymorphism and resistance to IFN-β treatment in Iranian MS patients from Qazvin province.
Background: The damage to agricultural products caused by fungal diseases accounts for approximately 12% of global production, with a higher impact in developing countries. One particularly destructive disease that inflicts significant damage on vegetable crops and greenhouses annually is seedling death and bush dieback disease, caused by the Phytophthora fungus. Currently, producers often rely heavily on chemical fertilizers and pesticides to enhance productivity and product quality. However, the use of some synthetic pesticides has recently been banned due to their high toxicity and long preharvest interval (PHI) periods. Biological control of plant diseases and pests is the optimal solution to mitigate the damages caused by synthetic pesticides. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the in vitro antifungal efficacy of different extracts derived from the aerial shoot of Indigofera tinctoria against plant pathogenic fungi. Methods: The aerial shoots of the Indigo plant were collected during the flowering stage from the medicinal plants collection of the Institute of Agricultural Research, Agriculture Institute Research, Institute of Zabol, Zabol, Iran. Ethanolic, methanolic, n-hexane, and acetone extracts were prepared by cold maceration with a ratio of 1:10. The antifungal effects of these extracts were investigated by measuring the diameter of halo growth inhibition under in vitro conditions. The LSD test was used to compare data means. Results: Our results showed that the best growth-inhibiting effect was observed with the ethanolic extract at a concentration of 300 μg/mL (2 mm) after 24 hours of incubation, whereas the diameter of colonies in the control was 27 mm, confirming a 92.5% inhibition of fungal growth. After 48 hours of incubation, the growth of Phytophthora drechsleri mycelium was clearly evident. In fact, the growth rate nearly doubled within 48 hours, but then at 73 hours, the mycelium grew at a slower rate. The inhibitory effect of the indigo extract was dose-dependent; as the extract concentration increased, the inhibitory effect became stronger. Conclusions: According to these results, the in vitro treatments were more significant when the plant extract concentration was higher. These findings could be promising for the production of natural fungicides.
Background: Modern genotyping platforms — ranging from allele-specific polymerase chain reaction (AS-PCR) to clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-based diagnostics and next-generation sequencing (NGS) — have revolutionized genetic analysis in research and clinical settings. Despite these advances, genetics education often fails to reflect current technological standards, leaving students with outdated concepts and limited practical competencies. Objectives: This study aimed to develop a pedagogical content knowledge (PCK)-oriented instructional module that systematically integrates cutting-edge genotyping methods into genetics education, addresses prevalent student misconceptions, and cultivates both technical skills and ethical awareness. Methods: A design-based research approach was used to construct a four-phase educational module for upper-level undergraduate and master’s students. Each phase aligns contemporary genotyping tools with evidence-based teaching strategies, including virtual simulations, laboratory practice, and case-based ethical reasoning. Instructional design was informed by current literature on PCK, technological pedagogical content knowledge (TPCK), and genomic pedagogy. Results: The module scaffolds learning from foundational polymerase chain reaction (PCR) concepts to high-throughput and field-deployable genotyping technologies, integrating simulations, practical exercises, and ethical debates. Anticipated outcomes include enhanced conceptual understanding, improved procedural accuracy, and stronger ethical reasoning. The framework includes detailed learning objectives, instructional tools, formative assessments, and implementation guidance adaptable to diverse teaching environments. Conclusions: Embedding modern genotyping technologies within a PCK-guided framework bridges the gap between educational content and real-world genomic applications. This approach fosters genomic literacy, research readiness, and ethical competence, preparing students for future roles in genetics, diagnostics, and personalized medicine.
Background: Pediatric gastrointestinal cancers, though rare, are aggressive and may cause neurological symptoms. Aldehyde dehydrogenase 18 family member A1 (ALDH18A1), a key metabolic enzyme, and plant-derived wheat germ agglutinin (WGA), which inhibits cancer growth, were studied. Objectives: The present study aimed to analyze their potential interaction using bioinformatics, exploring structural and biological impacts in pediatric gastrointestinal cancers with neurological involvement. Methods: The amino acid sequences of WGA (Triticum aestivum) and human ALDH18A1 were retrieved from the UniProt database. The three-dimensional structural models were generated using SWISS-MODEL, and model quality was evaluated using tools such as the Ramachandran plot and QMEAN scoring system. Subsequently, ClusPro was employed for protein-protein docking simulations to assess binding energy, hydrogen bonding, and the structural stability of the resulting complexes. Results: Basic local alignment search tool for proteins (BLASTp) analysis showed no significant sequence similarity between WGA and ALDH18A1. Nevertheless, structural modeling confirmed a high-quality model for WGA (QMEAN: +3.54; QMEANDisCo: 0.93) and an acceptable model for ALDH18A1. Molecular docking simulations yielded 28 interaction models, among which Cluster 21 exhibited the lowest binding energy (-1162.7 kcal/mol), indicating the most stable complex. The consistently low binding energies across multiple clusters strongly suggest a significant spatial interaction potential between the two proteins. Conclusions: Although no meaningful sequence homology exists between WGA and ALDH18A1, docking simulations revealed the possibility of a stable structural interaction. This interaction may have a regulatory effect on oxidative stress pathways, cellular survival, and neurological symptoms related to gastrointestinal cancers. The findings provide a foundational framework for future experimental studies aimed at developing plant lectin-based targeted therapies.
Background: Sheep are vital multipurpose animals in Iran, crucial for meat, wool, and milk production, supporting the nation’s protein needs. Objectives: The present study aims to computationally analyze the follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) gene’s structure to understand its role in sheep fertility and twinning rates. Methods: The ovine FSHR sequence (accession P35379) was obtained from National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Its tertiary structure was predicted using Swiss-Model and UniProt servers. The ligand (2-acetamido-2-deoxy-beta-D-glucopyranose) was acquired from GenBank. Protein preparation and docking analyses were performed using AutoDock, UCSF Chimera, and Molegro Virtual Docker software. Results: The modeled FSHR structure contained 366 amino acids, with leucine (43), serine (28), isoleucine (28), and asparagine (30) being the most abundant. Validation via Ramachandran plot indicated 70% of residues in favored regions, confirming good stereochemical quality. Molecular docking revealed a strong binding energy of -9.66 kcal/mol for the ligand 2-acetamido-2-deoxy-beta-D-glucopyranose. The ligand docked into one of five predicted cavities, forming key interactions. Critical hydrogen bonds were identified with Val138, His139, Pro136, Leu135, and Ser164, while hydrophobic interactions involved Ile25, Pro24, Val68, and Tyr80. Conclusions: This study successfully modeled the ovine FSHR and identified a strong binding affinity with the ligand 2-acetamido-2-deoxy-beta-D-glucopyranose. The specific hydrogen and hydrophobic bonds with key residues suggest this interaction could be significant for modulating FSHR function to enhance sheep reproductive efficiency.
Context: There is a common connection between the liver and the intestine, which is the main factor in the health of both organs. The bacterial flora in the intestine plays a very important role in improving the functions of liver cells; any change in the number and type of these microorganisms causes significant disorders in the liver. Methods: This study was conducted by searching for articles on various sites with keywords in Persian and English. Results: The results of various studies showed that the use of combination treatments with probiotic bacteria can have good protective effects against liver diseases, including hepatitis. Preliminary studies and clinical trials have shown that probiotics can reduce liver damage and accelerate cell repair by reducing systemic inflammation, improving intestinal barrier function, and regulating the immune response. In various liver diseases such as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and chronic hepatitis, the use of probiotics has had positive results. Liver biomarkers such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) are sensitive and reliable indicators of liver cell damage, whose levels increase during inflammation and injury. A faster decrease in these enzymes can indicate a quicker recovery of liver damage. Therefore, examining the effect of probiotics on changes in these biomarkers and also determining the time required for enzymes to return to normal levels can more accurately determine the role of this intervention. Conclusions: In addition to helping to better understand the mechanisms of action of probiotics, the results of this study can provide valuable guidance for physicians in choosing adjuvant treatments and improving the quality of life of people with this disease. Finally, this study can play an important role in the development of health and medical policies at the national level and serve as a basis for future research in the field of the use of probiotics in viral liver diseases of patients.
Background: Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women and is associated with high mortality (670,000 deaths in 2022), mostly due to late diagnosis. The identification of biomarkers associated with clinicopathological variables can aid in the diagnosis and targeted treatment of patients. Objectives: Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the relationship between SOX-10 and Ki-67 expression in invasive ductal breast tumors and the clinicopathological characteristics of patients. Methods: In this retrospective observational study, 42 tumor tissue samples were prepared from patients with invasive ductal breast cancer who met the inclusion criteria. Clinical and clinicopathological data such as age, tumor type, size, lymph node involvement, tumoral tissue necrosis, grade, and tumor mitotic activity were collected from the hospital HIS system. SOX-10 and Ki-67 expression were studied using immunohistochemical assays. Data were analyzed in SPSS V. 26 software using the chi-square test and Pearson's correlation coefficient. Results: The present study was conducted retrospectively with 42 patients referred to Besat Hospital, Hamadan, Iran. SOX-10 expression was not associated with clinicopathological variables such as tumor size, tumor molecular type, grade, lymph node involvement, and tumor necrosis. However, all luminal A tumors were Ki-67 + or ++ [P = 0.0001, likelihood ratio (LR) = 39.74, R = -0.032], and Ki-67 was negative in luminal B subtypes. Also, most grade I tumors were negative for Ki-67, and most grade II tumors were Ki-67 + (P = 0.008). Nevertheless, grade III tumors were more Ki-67 ++. Conclusions: There is no association between SOX-10 expression and the clinicopathological attributes of invasive ductal breast cancer. However, it was found that Ki-67 did not express in luminal B subtypes (in this sample) but is expressed in luminal A ones. In addition, Ki-67 expression is higher in grade III tumors compared to grades I and II. However, prospective studies with larger sample sizes are necessary to confirm the results of the present study.
Background: Advancements in human embryo genetic manipulation, including eugenics and modern gene-editing technologies such as CRISPR-Cas9, have created new possibilities for preventing hereditary diseases and improving human health. These technologies enable targeted correction of genetic defects and contribute to understanding complex reproductive and developmental processes. However, they also raise profound ethical, social, and human rights concerns, such as genetic discrimination, violation of human dignity, and unpredictable genomic consequences. Bioethical principles and international human rights instruments provide essential frameworks to ensure the responsible and equitable use of such innovations. Objectives: This study examines human embryo genetic manipulation from the perspective of bioethics and human rights, identifying its scientific advantages, potential risks, and moral implications. The aim is to explore how technological progress can coexist with respect for fundamental human values, including dignity, equality, and integrity. Methods: Using a descriptive-analytical and applied research approach, this study reviews key literature on gene editing, preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD), and relevant international conventions — including UNESCO’s Universal Declaration on the Human Genome and Human Rights and the Oviedo Convention. Ethical, legal, and social aspects are comparatively analyzed to assess the boundaries of responsible scientific practice. Results: Findings indicate that while genetic manipulation can improve diagnosis, prevent hereditary diseases, and enhance quality of life, it also poses risks of genetic discrimination, unequal access, social exclusion, and violation of human rights. Ethical debates emphasize balancing scientific advancement with the preservation of human dignity and justice. Conclusions: Human embryo genetic manipulation represents a transformative yet ethically sensitive frontier in medicine. Its responsible application requires strict ethical oversight, legal regulation, public awareness, and international cooperation. Ensuring that such interventions respect human dignity, equality, and fundamental rights is vital for achieving sustainable scientific progress that benefits both present and future generations.
Background: Climate is a variable phenomenon, and its variability has always been of interest to climatologists. Objectives: Since climate plays an important role in all aspects of life, attention to its changes has become one of humanity's concerns, especially in recent decades, and it can be considered the greatest challenge of the 21st century. Dust is one of the atmospheric phenomena that occur in many regions of the world. Methods: This study is a cross-sectional study. Data on air pollutants, particulate matter, and dust were collected from the Zabol Meteorological Center, and the resulting information was plotted in appropriate graphs. Descriptive statistics and Pearson's correlation coefficient were used to analyze and determine the relationship between air pollution and resulting heart diseases. Results: This study is a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted in 1404 AH. Data on air pollutants, particulate matter, and dust were collected from the Zabol Meteorological Center. Additionally, 96 patients referred to Amir al-Momenin Hospital in Zabol were examined in this study. The results showed that the highest prevalence was blood pressure (26.04%), and the lowest prevalence was rheumatoid arthritis (1.04%). Conclusions: The results indicated that with the increase in fine dust, the number of cardiovascular patients visiting the hospital increased.
Background: The Bakhtiari goat is one of the native and important breeds of Iran, especially raised in the western and southwestern regions of the country. Objectives: Studies have shown that this breed possesses high genetic diversity, which can aid in improving breeding programs. Methods: Thirty goats were selected, and blood samples were collected. After DNA extraction and quality assessment, the target fragment was amplified using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique and sent to Pishgam Company for sequencing. Results: The results revealed two non-synonymous single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) mutations, including the substitution of arginine (Arg) with lysine (Lys) at position 13, and aspartic acid (Asp) with glutamine (Gln) at position 9. The SNP analysis was conducted using the SIFT, PROVEAN, and I-Mutant software, which indicated that the identified SNPs could affect the structure and function of the follicle-stimulating hormone beta subunit (FSHB) protein. In particular, the SIFT software scoring showed that the SNPs were identified as deleterious and could negatively impact the stability and function of the protein. Furthermore, gene network mapping results using STRING software demonstrated strong interactions of FSHB with other genes related to hormonal regulation and reproduction. The findings of this study potentially indicate that the identified SNPs in the FSHB gene can influence reproductive processes and fertility in goats. There is a need for further research to better understand the effects of these SNPs on the structure and function of the FSHB protein in goats. Conclusions: These findings can contribute to improving breeding programs and managing genetic diversity in goats and serve as a basis for future studies in this field.
Background: Recombinant follicle-stimulating hormone (rFSH) can be administered for the manipulation of the estrus cycle and controlled ovarian stimulation in domestic cats, serving as a crucial model for endangered felid assisted reproductive technology (ART). Objectives: The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of different doses and durations of rFSH administration on ovarian volume and oocyte quality in anestrous domestic cat queens. Methods: A total of 12 anestrous queens were randomly allocated into four groups (n = 3 per group): Three active treatment groups receiving rFSH (Cinnal-F, Iran) intramuscularly and one negative control group (G4, saline). Treatment groups compared dose and duration: G1 (2.0 mg × 2 days), G2 (2.5 mg × 2 days), and G3 (2.5 mg × 4 days). After ovariectomy, ovarian volume was estimated using its dimensions, and oocytes were surgically retrieved 24 hours post-final injection, then counted and graded morphologically (A, B, C/D). Results: The ovarian volume (mm3) was the highest in the 4.0 mg total dose group (right ovary: 178.7 ± 16.8; P = 0.0237; left ovary: 128.2 ± 17.1; P = 0.0405) among all other groups. However, logistic regression analysis revealed no significant differences among any of the groups (G1 - G4) regarding the odds ratios for retrieving high-quality oocytes (grades A and B). Conclusions: The findings showed no efficacy of the applied protocol of rFSH on the ovarian response in terms of oocyte retrieval and follicle development.
