Journal of investigative medicine : the official publication of the American Federation for Clinical Research
-
Previous studies have reported that as the main extract of areca nut, arecoline (ARE) causes DNA damage and in turn contributes to the carcinogenesis of oral epithelial cells. It has been reported that ARE can inhibit the expression of miR-886-3p. In the current study, we aimed to explore the expression and biological functions of miR-886-3p in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). ⋯ Transfection of miR-886-3p mimics markedly decreased viability, migration and invasion of OSCC cells. These experimental data implied that miR-886-3p suppression mediated by ARE took part in the proliferation and metastasis of OSCC. This study can help elucidate the mechanism by which areca nut chewing contributes to the malignant transformation of oral epithelial cells.
-
COVID-19 has ravaged the medical, social, and financial landscape across the world, and the USA-Mexico border is no exception. Although some risk factors for COVID-19 severity and mortality have already been identified in various ethnic cohorts, there remains a paucity of data among Hispanics, particularly those living on borders. Ethnic disparities in COVID-19 outcomes in Hispanic and black populations have been reported. ⋯ The most common cause of death was respiratory failure (28.9%), followed by shock (17.8%) and acute kidney injury (15.6%). Our findings are critical to developing strategies and identifying at-risk individuals in a Hispanic population living on borders. Research aiming to identify key evidence-based prognostic factors in our patient population will help inform our healthcare providers so that best interventions can be implemented to improve the outcomes of patients with COVID-19.