Figure 3.

Real-time RT-PCR of some modulated genes confirms the results of gene array analysis. Genes selected for validation were CCL2, CXCL2, ICAM1, and IL-8. All the transcripts were increased in BD samples when compared to healthy donors. Relative expression levels were calculated for each sample after normalization against the housekeeping genes 18s rRNA, beta-actin, and GAPDH. Experiments have been conducted in triplicates. Housekeeping genes: violet bar: 18s rRNA; yellow bar: beta-actin; and blue bar: GAPDH.