Biomarkers in serum samples to aid TB diagnosis
Q. Biomarkers in serum samples in Nov 2016 has led to possible cure for _________.- Published on 08 Nov 16a. Dengue
b. Chikunguniya
c. Malaria
d. TB
ANSWER: TB
Researchers from Mumbai in Nov 2016 identified two biomarkers in serum samples to aid TB diagnosis and TB disease prognosis.
- Identified microRNA biomarkers could be used for drug sensitive pulmonary TB and multi-drug resistant TB(MDR-TB) patients.
- Research covers measuring of 4 levels of miRNAs, miR-16, miR-29a, miR-125b and miR-155 in 30 newly diagnosed TB patients.
- This includes 10 MDR TB patients and 10 patients who were cured of the disease. A control group was also selected.
- The research had levels of miRNA estimated by qRT-PCR( Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction) is used in molecular biology to detect RNA expression.
- Among the 4 miRNAs, levels of miR-16 were shown to be significantly higher and miR-155 lower in serum of TB patients in comparison to healthy individuals.
- Levels of both these biomarkers were different in those with MDR-TB.
- Research has also indicated miR-16 shows a better predictive value than miR155 in drug sensitive pulmonary TB and yet higher than the normal level.
- Both levels returned to normal once treatment was completed.
