Linkage of Ii-Key segment to gp100(46-58) epitope enhances the production of epitope-specific antibodies

Linkage of the Ii-Key segment of the Ii protein to MHC class II epitope gp100(46-58) using a polymethylene linker significantly enhances the production of epitope-specific antibodies in HLA-DR4-IE transgenic mice. This enhancement is not restricted by the spacer length in between the Ii-Key and epitope. The use of either IFA or CFA induced only epitope-specific IgG1. In contrast, CpG adjuvant induced both IgG1 and IgG2a isotypes. These results indicate that the Ii-Key hybrid technology is a novel and potent method to increase the immunogenicity of a MHC class II epitope. It can also be used to more efficiently generate epitope-specific antibodies.     

Can HLA typing predict the outcome of grass pollen immunotherapy?

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between HLA molecules and the positive or negative response of atopic patients to specific immunotherapy (SIT). METHODS: We studied 42 atopic multisensitive patients undergoing grass pollen immunotherapy, 42 parents of patients (30 mothers and 12 fathers) and 173 control individuals. HLA class I and class II antigens were typed by a microlymphocytotoxicity test. The typing of DRB1* alleles for atopic patients and their parents was based on the reverse hybridization principle, while for the control group, DNA-RFLP and PCR-SSP methods were used. RESULTS: The frequency of B14 and DRB1*1101-4 antigens/alleles, as well as the A2B5DR11 haplotype, showed a statistically significant difference in those patients who responded to immunotherapy. On the other hand, HLA-A28, B8 and DRB1*0301 antigens/alleles, as well as the frequency of the A1B8 and A1B8DR3 haplotypes, were found to be significantly higher in patients who responded poorly to SIT. DISCUSSION: Our findings support the hypothesis that treatment responsiveness may show an association to HLA molecules, which could thus play a role in the immunological selection and monitoring of atopic patient candidacy for SIT.     

An unusual presentation of Bochdalek hernia after laparoscopic surgery

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) occurs as a result of an embryologic developmental defect during gestation. Occasionally, CDH is incidentally discovered in adulthood during radiological testing for other reasons, such as mild dyspnoea or digestive symptoms. Herein, we report a case of posterolateral diaphragmatic hernia presented in adulthood, some years after laparoscopic bariatric surgery.     

People with intellectual disabilities who are affected by a relative or friend with cancer: A qualitative study exploring experiences and support needs

PurposeTo explore the experiences of people with intellectual disabilities (ID) who have a relative or friend with cancer, and to identify their support needs.Methods and sampleParticipants were 21 adults with ID who had a relative/friend with cancer, now or in the past. Data were collected using focus groups and face-to-face interviews. Focus groups met four times, using a range of data collection techniques. Sessions were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data were analysed using thematic content analysis. Data were collected between March 2010 and March 2011.ResultsFour themes emerged: (1) Protection and inclusion: participants who had not been told about their loved one's illness felt excluded; (2) Coping with cancer: participants had vivid memories of events and feelings. They worried about their families. Many had become carers themselves; (3) Understanding cancer: participants lacked knowledge about cancer and wanted to know more. (4) Someone to talk to: participants would have liked to share their feelings and questions with family, friends or professionals, but had not voiced their questions or concerns. ‘Someone to talk to about my feelings and worries’ and ‘Someone to support the rest of my family’ were voted the most helpful support strategies.ConclusionsCancer nurses should ensure that people with ID in their patients' social circle are included in the family unit and receive adequate emotional support. They should be proactive in giving them information that is easy to understand. Using fictional stories can be particularly helpful in eliciting questions and concerns.