Document Type : New and original researches in the field of Microbiology.
Authors
1
Department of Biology, College of Sciences, Tikrit University, Tikrit, Salah Al Deen, Iraq.
2
Department of Biology, College of Sciences, Tikrit University, Tikrit, Salah Al Deen, Iraq
3
Department of Biology, College of Education for Pure Sciences, Tikrit University, Tikrit, Salah Al Deen, Iraq
Abstract
Background: Background: Pathogenic fungi can infect immunocompromised patients, raising global public health concerns. Objective: The current study aims to assess miRNA expression differences and their relation to IL6 levels in immunosuppressed patients during fungal infections. Methodology: This study included 44 cancer patients with fungal infections, 22 cancer patients without infections, and 24 healthy controls. Fungal species were identified by culture, microscopy, and 18S rRNA gene sequencing. IL-6 levels were measured using ELISA, and microRNA gene expression was analyzed via qRT-PCR. Results: Patients infected with yeasts displayed a significant decrease in IL6 levels (p < 0.001) and those with mold also have lower levels compared to healthy individuals (p < 0.001). The levels of miRNA 155-5p were lower in yeast-infected patients (p < 0.001) and mold-infected patients (p < 0.001), compared to healthy controls. In contrast, miRNA 146a expression was significantly higher in yeast (p = 0.001) and mold infection groups (p = 0.016) than in controls. Additionally, miRNA 342-3P expression increased in yeasts (p < 0.001) and mold patients (p < 0.001) in contrast to healthy individuals. Positive correlation between IL6 and miRNA 155-5p was detected and negative correlations between IL6 levels and miRNA 146a/ miRNA 342-3p were also detected. Conclusion: miR-155, miRNA 146a, and miRNA 342-3P may have important roles in regulating IL6 serum levels in immunosuppressed patients with fungal infection.
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