Correlation of Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor (MIF) Expression and Asymmetric Dimethylarginine (ADMA) Levels in Helicobacter pylori Infection

Abstract

Helicobacter pylori induce inflammation and gastric mucosal injury. Inflammation is characterized by increased activity of pro-inflammatory cytokines; those are controlled and stimulated by macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF). Gastric injury, pro-inflammatory factors, and oxidative stress in H. pylori infection produce asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), which inhibits the activity of nitric oxide synthase (NOS), an enzyme in nitric oxide (NO) production. Overproduction of ADMA generates gastric mucosal disintegration and severe inflammation. This study aimed to investigate the correlation between MIF expression and ADMA levels in rats induced by H. pylori infection. Twenty four male Wistar rats were randomly divided into two groups equally. Group-1 as a control group, group-2 as H. pylori-infected group. MIF expression was determined by the immunoreactive score (IRS). Serum ADMA levels were analyzed using ELISA technique. Group-2 had a higher IRS compared to group-1 (P = 0.000). Serum ADMA levels in group-2 were higher compared to a control group (P = 0.000). There was a significant positive correlation between MIF expression and ADMA levels (r = 0.876, P > 0.05). There was a significant increase in MIF expression, ADMA levels, and a significant positive correlation between MIF expression and ADMA levels in H. pylori infection.