Levels Of Inflammatory Biomarkers Research Articles

Noninvasive, Multimodal Inflammatory Biomarker Discovery for Systemic Inflammation (NOVA Study): Protocol for a Cross-Sectional Study.

Prolonged systemic inflammation is recognized as a major contributor to the development of various chronic inflammatory diseases. Daily measurements of inflammatory biomarkers can significantly improve disease monitoring of systemic inflammation, thus contributing to reducing the burden on patients and the health care system. There exists, however, no scalable, cost-efficient, and noninvasive biomarker for remote assessment of systemic inflammation. To this end, we propose a novel, multimodal, and noninvasive approach for measuring inflammatory biomarkers. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between the levels of inflammatory biomarkers in serum (gold standard) and those measured noninvasively in urine, sweat, saliva, exhaled breath, stool, and core body temperature in patients with systemic inflammation. This study is a single-center, cross-sectional study and includes a total of 20 participants (10 patients with systemic inflammation and 10 control patients). Eligible participants provide serum, urine, sweat, saliva, exhaled breath, and stool samples for biomarker analyses. Core body temperature is measured using a sensor. The primary end point is the level of C-reactive protein (CRP). The secondary end points are interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, and tumor necrosis factor-α levels. The tertiary end points are fractional exhaled nitric oxide, calprotectin, and core body temperature. Samples will be collected in 2 batches, enabling preliminary analysis of the first batch (patients 1-5 from each group). The full analysis will include both batches. CRP and cytokine levels will be measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and electrochemiluminescence immunoassay. For statistical analysis, the Shapiro-Wilk test will be used to evaluate the normality of the distribution in each variable. We will perform the 2-tailed t test or Wilcoxon rank sum test to compare the levels of inflammatory biomarkers between patients with systemic inflammations and control patients. Pearson and Spearman correlation coefficients will assess the relationship between inflammatory biomarkers from noninvasive methods and serum biomarkers. Using all-subset regression analysis, we will determine the combination of noninvasive methods yielding the highest predictive accuracy for serum CRP levels. Participants' preferences for sampling methods will be assessed through a questionnaire. The study received ethics approval from the independent research ethics committee of Canton Zurich on October 28, 2022. A total of 20 participants participated in the study measurements. Data collection started on February 22, 2023, and was completed on September 22, 2023. Participants were on average 52.8 (SD 14.4; range 24-82) years of age, and 70% (14/20) of them were women. The analysis results reporting findings are expected to be published in 2025. This study aims to evaluate the feasibility of noninvasive, multimodal assessment of inflammatory biomarkers in patients with systemic inflammation. Promising results could lead to the creation of noninvasive and potentially digital biomarkers for systemic inflammation, enabling continuous monitoring and early diagnosis of inflammatory activity in a remote setting. DERR1-10.2196/62877.

Relationship between Diet-Related Inflammation and Hospitalization Risk and Disease Severity in Patients with COVID-19

Background: Increased serum concentrations of inflammatory biomarkers in patients indicate a strong association between COVID-19 and inflammation. However, the association between diet-related inflammation and COVID-19 has been less investigated. The aim of this study is to investigate whether the inflammatory scores of the diet are associated with the severity of COVID-19 disease and the probability of hospitalization of patients. Methods: The authors conducted a cross-sectional study involving 141 patients with COVID-19. The empirical dietary inflammatory pattern (EDIP) and dietary inflammation scores (DIS) were calculated based on a 147-item semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire. The association between serum levels of inflammatory biomarkers and diet-related inflammation was also investigated. Results: 74 inpatients and 87 outpatients participated in this study. Higher DIS scores were significantly associated with an increased risk of COVID-related hospitalization (Tertile3 vs. tertile1: OR = 3·62; 95 % CI 1·43 to 9·14, P=0·008 after fully adjustment). This association with EDIP was also observed, but it was not significant. Conclusion: The data from this provide evidence that a pro-inflammatory diet was associated with higher risk of hospitalization due to high severity of COVID-19.

Cardioprotective potential of sakuranetin to counteract polyethylene microplastics induced cardiotoxicity

Polyethylene microplastics (PEMPs) are toxic environmental contaminants which can impair multiple organs including heart. Sakuranetin (SKN) is a potential flavonoid with diverse pharmacological benefits. This research was undertaken to analyze the defensive impact of SKN to avert PEMPs-induced cardiotoxicity. Rats were allocated into 4 separate groups: control, PEMPs (1.5 mg kg−1), PEMPs + SKN (1.5 mg kg−1 + 10 mg kg−1) & only SKN (10 mg kg−1) treated group. After 30 days of treatment, our results revealed that PEMPs exposure reduced Nrf2 & antioxidant genes whereas increased Keap1 expression. Besides PEMPs intoxication escalated the level of cardiac biomarkers (CPK, LDH, Troponin I & CK-MB). Additionally, it lessened the activities of GSH, GST, SOD, HO-1, CAT, GSR, GPx whereas the levels of MDA and OS were increased. Conversely, the levels of inflammatory biomarkers i.e., COX-2 activity IL-1β, TNF-α, NF-kB & IL-6 were augmented. Besides, the expressions of apoptotic biomarkers i.e., Bax & caspase-3 were enhanced while the Bcl-2 expression was decreased. Furthermore, histological analysis indicated substantial cardiac tissue damage. However, SKN treatment significantly restored the PEMPs-induced biochemical as well as histological impairments. Therefore, SKN could be used as a therapeutic compound to ameliorate PEMPs-induced cardiac impairments in rats, possibly due to its tremendous pharmacotherapeutic potential.

Extra virgin olive oil beneficial effects on memory, synaptic function, and neuroinflammation in a mouse model of Down syndrome.

Clinical and preclinical studies have shown that extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), a major component of the Mediterranean diet, has beneficial effects on brain aging and cognition. Individuals with Down syndrome develop age-dependent cognitive decline and synaptic dysfunction. However, whether EVOO intake is beneficial in Down syndrome is not known. In this study, by implementing a mouse model of Down syndrome, we aimed to investigate the effect that chronic administration of EVOO has on memory, synaptic function, and neuroinflammation. Starting at 4 months of age Ts65dn mice were randomized to receive EVOO for 5 months in their diet, after which they were tested for learning and memory impairment. After euthanasia, synaptic function was measured in freshly obtained hippocampal slices, whereas brain tissues were assessed for inflammatory biomarkers. Compared with controls, mice receiving EVOO had a significant improvement in learning and spatial memory. Additionally, field potential recordings showed that treated mice had an improvement in synaptic function. Finally, array analysis showed that EVOO modulated the expression levels of several inflammatory biomarkers. Chronic administration of EVOO to a mouse model of Down syndrome has beneficial effects on memory impairments, synaptic function deficits and neuroinflammation. Our findings provide additional support for the potential therapeutic effects of EVOO also in individuals with Down syndrome.

Perplexing paradoxical reactions: navigating the complexity of protracted tuberculosis meningitis—a case report

Tuberculous meningitis (TBM) has considerable mortality and morbidity, and it often presents therapeutic challenges when complicated by paradoxical reactions (PRs). Here, the clinical course of four cases of TBM patients complicated by PRs in a longitudinal TB cohort is described while also providing insights from the larger clinical cohort. Research flow cytometry, biomarker analysis, and drug concentrations were performed on available samples. All participants were initiated on standard antituberculosis therapy (ATT) and enrolled at the onset of PRs (PR group) or 2–4 months after the start of ATT (controls). The four TBM participants highlighted here presented with fevers, headaches, neurological deficits, and fatigue at the initial presentation. Upon diagnosis, all were initiated on rifampin, isoniazid, pyrazinamide, and ethambutol (RHZE) at standard doses and on corticosteroids. The median time to first PR was 37 days with recrudescence of initial TBM signs and symptoms at the time of PR. At the time of referral, all participants had low drug concentrations requiring dose optimization and regimen intensification as well as recrudescent flares upon corticosteroid taper, with one individual developing enlargement of tuberculoma 1 year following completion of ATT. Based on biomarkers and flow cytometry, PRs are characterized by elevated interferon-gamma and ferritin levels in the plasma compared to controls. In the TBM participants, T-cell activation with elevated levels of inflammatory biomarkers in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) was seen at the time of PR. These unique and highly detailed TBM cases provide insights into the pathogenesis of PRs, which may assist with future diagnostics and treatment.

Increased circulating levels of standardized inflammatory and endothelial dysfunction biomarkers in patients with myocardial infarction with nonobstructive coronary arteries

Abstract Introduction Around 10% of patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) present with nonobstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA), for which the underlying pathophysiology is often uncertain. Our aim was to evaluate inflammatory burden and endothelial dysfunction in MINOCA patients by assessing biomarkers in both acute and stable phases. Methods An analytical and observational study at a University Hospital involving 166 MI patients admitted over the past 3years. Following ESC guidelines, patients were categorized into MINOCA or myocardial infarction with significant coronary artery disease (MI-CAD) groups. Circulating levels of inflammatory biomarkers (interleukin-6(IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α) and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein(hs-CRP)) and of endothelial dysfunction (asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA)) were measured in 44 MINOCA patients and 122 MI-CAD patients at acute phase (admission and discharge) and stable phase (2months after MI). As biomarker levels may vary with MI size, each value was standardized by dividing it by the peak troponin, resulting in a biomarker/troponinT ratio. We evaluated the effects of standardized (SB) and non-standardized (NSB) biomarker values using a multivariate regression model adjusted for age and sex. Results We analyzed 166 patients (median age:68 years, 70% males). MI-CAD patients had higher peak high-sensitive troponinT (hs-TnT) levels upon admission compared to those with MINOCA (1491ng/L vs 247ng/L,p<0.001),likely due to larger infarctions generating higher levels of inflammation. When examining the association between infarct size, as measured by peak hs-TnT values, and biomarker levels, we observed a significant dose-response relationship for hs-CRP at admission (βcoefficient 0.16 [95%CI,0.02-0.29],p0.02) and IL-6 at admission (βcoefficient 0.15 [95%CI,0.04-0.27],p0.01). Significant positive associations were found between MINOCA and all SBs, both during the acute phase and in follow-up. During the acute phase ORs ranged from 1.35to2.7 (p<0.05) for inflammatory biomarkers and from 2.34 to 2.76 (p<0.01) for ADMA. In the stable phase ORs ranged from 1.49to3.06 (p<0.05) for inflammatory biomarkers, and OR was 2.79(p<0.01) for ADMA (Figure 1). In contrast, none of the NSBs were associated with MINOCA. Regarding temporal biomarker changes, during the acute phase of MI and 2 months post-event, both MINOCA and MI-CAD patients showed similar trends. However, MINOCA patients consistently maintained elevated inflammatory activity and ADMA concentrations only when biomarkers were standardized by infarct size (Figure 2). Conclusions Higher levels of SBs were consistently associated with MINOCA, both during the acute phase of the event and in follow-up, compared to MI-CAD. Consequently, this study suggests that the inflammatory burden, measured by heightened levels of standardized inflammatory biomarkers, and endothelial dysfunction, as measured by ADMA, may play a role in the pathophysiology of MINOCA.Boxplots for SBs at three time points.Temporal changes in biomarker levels.

One-year outcomes of patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy according to levels of inflammatory biomarkers

Abstract Background Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a vastly heterogeneous sarcomere disorder unified by maximal left ventricular (LV) thickness increases. The lifetime relative risk of morbidity in HCM is four-fold higher than in the general population, primarily driven by arrhythmias and heart failure (HF). Numerous prognostic features have been identified, but our ability to identify high-risk patients of progression remains rudimentary. Small retrospective studies have shown that systemic inflammation is associated with adverse outcomes in patients with HF; others, small and single-center, have also shown associations between adverse outcomes and inflammation in HCM. Purpose We aimed to determine whether elevated levels of inflammatory biomarkers are associated with an increased risk of acute heart failure (AHF) and mortality at 1 year in a large cohort of patients with HCM across multiple centers in the United States (US). Methods In this retrospective study, using the US cohort of 60 healthcare organizations in the TriNetX database, we included more than 85,000 adult patients with HCM (ICD-10-CM codes I42.1 and I42.2) between 2004 and 2024. Patients were divided according to predetermined cut-offs of different inflammatory biomarkers (C-reactive protein [CRP], <2 mg/L vs. 2-100 mg/L; white blood cells [WBC], < vs. ≥ the median [8x10^3/µL]; neutrophils [Neu], < vs. ≥ the median [5x10^3/µL]). These cohorts were then 1:1 propensity score matched (PSM) for age, sex, and race. We used Kaplan-Meier survival curves to derive cumulative incidence curves (as 1 minus Kaplan-Meier survival estimates) for AHF (ICD-10-CM codes I50.21, I50.23, I50.31, I50.33, I50.41, I50.43) or death, and we compared them with the Log-rank (Mantel-Cox) test. We also derived Hazard Ratios (HR) with 95% Confidence Interval (CI) from Cox regression analysis to compare the outcomes within the groups at 1-year. Results After PSM, patients with HCM and CRP levels between 2-100 mg/L experienced higher rates of the composite outcome (19.6% vs. 12.2%, Log-rank p<0.001; HR 1.67, 95% CI [1.29-2.16]), as well as the separate outcomes of death (14.7% vs. 6.8%, Log-rank p<0.001; HR 2.23, 95% CI [1.68-2.98]) and AHF (10.9% vs. 7.5%, Log-rank p<0.001; HR 1.49, 95% CI [1.07-2.07]), compared to those with CRP <2 mg/L (Table 1)(Figure 1). Similarly, patients with Neu ≥5x10^3/µL reported higher incidences of the composite outcome (20.3% vs. 13.2%, Log-rank p<0.001; HR 1.62, 95% CI [1.55-1.68]) and the separates outcomes, compared to those with Neu <5x10^3/µL (Table 1) (Figure 1). Patients with WBC ≥8x10^3/µL also had increased rates of the composite outcome (19.4% vs. 14.1%, Log-rank p<0.001; HR 1.43, 95% CI [1.38-1.48]) and the separate outcomes, compared to those with WBC <8x10^3/µL (Table 1)(Figure 1). Conclusions In the first large 'real world' analysis of patients with HCM, elevated levels of inflammatory biomarkers were associated with worse outcomes of death and acute heart failure.

Impact of Dolutegravir plus Lamivudine as First-Line Antiretroviral Treatment on HIV-1 Reservoir and Inflammatory Markers in Peripheral Blood.

To compare the effects of first-line antiretroviral treatment (ART) with dolutegravir plus lamivudine (DTG+3TC) versus DTG plus emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide (FTC/TAF) on the evolution of the HIV-1 reservoir and immune activation biomarkers in people with HIV (PWH). DUALITY was a 48-week, single-center, randomized, open-label clinical trial in ART-naïve PWH. Participants were randomized (1:1) to receive ART with DTG+3TC (2DR group) or DTG+FTC/TAF (3DR group). Total and intact proviral HIV-1 DNA, cell-associated RNA in CD4+ T cells, the frequency of HIV-infected CD4+ T cells able to produce p24, plasma soluble inflammatory markers (IL-6, sCD14, TRAIL, IP-10, FABP2, CRP and D-dimer), and activation and exhaustion markers in CD4+ and CD8+ T cells were longitudinally determined. Forty-four participants (22 per study arm) were enrolled. Baseline mean (SD) log10 plasma viral load (pVL) and CD4+ T cell counts were 4.4 (0.7) copies/mL and 493 (221) cells/mm3, respectively. All participants completing the study (2DR n=20; 3DR n=21) had pVL <50 copies/mL at week 48, except for one in the 2DR group who was resuppressed after treating syphilis. Changes from baseline to week 48 in all reservoir parameters or in levels of soluble inflammatory biomarkers and activated or exhausted CD4+ and CD8+ T cells were similar between 2DR and 3DR groups. First-line ART with DTG+3TC resulted in a similar reduction of HIV-1 persistence parameters in peripheral blood, and comparable changes in immune-associated soluble and T-cell markers compared with DTG+FTC/TAF. These findings support recommendation of DTG/3TC among preferred options for first-line ART in PWH.

Role of inflammation and cholesterol efflux in myocardial infarction patients without standard modifiable risk factors

Abstract Background A substantial proportion of ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients has no standard modifiable cardiovascular risk factors (SMuRF) at admission. Knowledge on pathogenesis and risk markers of mortality in these patients remain limited. Aims We described the characteristics and prognosis of SMuRF-less patients admitted for a first STEMI in the light of recent prognostic biomarkers. Methods Baseline characteristics including interleukin (IL)-1β, hs-CRP and serum cholesterol efflux capacity were compared between patients with and without SMuRF. Determinants of 1-year all-cause mortality were assessed using univariable and multivariable Cox regression analyses. Results Among the 1604 patients included, 178 (11.1%) were SMuRF-less. SMuRF-less patients were older (66.9 ± 15.3 vs 61.9 ± 13.9, p&amp;lt;0.001), less often men (66.9 vs 75.9%, p&amp;lt;0.001) and had lower body mass index (24.2 ± 3.9 vs 26.0 ± 4.4, p&amp;lt;0.001) compared to patients with ≥1 SMuRFs. SMuRF-less patients presented higher rates of altered LVEF&amp;lt;45% and killip≥2 at admission (31.8% vs 22.8%, p=0.014 and 19 vs 12.9%, respectively, p=0.027) without differences in proportions of late STEMI presenters (symptoms-to-balloon time &amp;gt;360 min) did not differ between groups. SMuRF-less patients had lower rates of revascularization (82 vs 92.3%, p&amp;lt;0.001) and received less guidelines recommended medications (statins, β-blockers or angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors) at discharge; p&amp;lt;0.001 for all. Compared to patients with SMuRF, SMuRF-less patients had lower serum cholesterol efflux capacity (0.79 ± 0.16 vs 0.83 ± 0.16, respectively, p&amp;lt;0.001), were more often in the highest tertile of IL-1β (28.7% vs 18.9%, respectively, p=0.002) with a trend towards more patients within the highest hs-CRP level tertile (24.7% vs 19.1%, respectively, p=0.077). Crude rates of mortality were more than doubled in the SMuRF-less group (18.5% vs 7.7%, respectively, p&amp;lt;0.001). After multivariable adjustment SMuRF-less status was associated with a higher rate of mortality at one year aHR 1.87 [1.05-2.38], p=0.029) as well as inflammation biomarkers IL-1β (HR 1.81 [1.23-2.66], p=0.003) and high tertiles of hs-CRP (HR 1.87 [1.31-2.66], p&amp;lt;0.001) whereas having a high serum cholesterol efflux capacity was associated with a lower mortality (HR 0.27 [0.09-0.87], p=0.0208). Conclusion In STEMI patients, SMuRF-less patients have higher levels of inflammatory biomarkers and more frequent defective serum cholesterol efflux capacity, are undertreated, and have higher rate of mortality than patients with standard modifiable cardiovascular risk factors. Optimized management of such patients is needed.

Actinomyces status and inflammatory biomarkers in post-tonsillectomy hemorrhage cases

Background The presence of Actinomyces can be associated with complications. Aims This study aimed to determine the frequency of post-tonsillectomy hemorrhage (PTH), the presence of Actinomyces in palatine tonsils and serum inflammatory biomarker levels in PTH. Material and methods The cases who underwent tonsillectomy at a single center were included in the study. Neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet to lymphocyte ratio (PLR), systemic immune inflammation index (SII) and systemic inflammation response index (SIRI) values were calculated from the complete blood count test. The presence of Actinomyces was recorded from histopathological tonsillectomy material. Results A total of 1137 patients were included in the study. Actinomyces was detected in 93 (8.18%) patients. Bleeding complications were encountered in 65 cases (5.72%). No relationship was detected between the presence of Actinomyces and PTH rates (p = 0.433). While a relationship was found between age, NLR, and SIRI values and Actinomyces status (respectively, p < 0.001, p = 0.017, p = 0.038), no statistically significant relationship was found between tonsil size, PLR, and SII (p > 0.05). Conclusion and significance According to the data in our study, NLR and SIRI values were elevated in subjects with Actinomyces. Our findings suggest that this entity has a systemic manifestation. Serum inflammatory biomarkers and the presence of Actinomyces were not found to be associated with PTH.

Surgical removal of tonsils and risk of COVID-19: a nested case–control study using data from UK Biobank and AMORIS Cohort

BackgroundTo investigate the association between surgical removal of tonsils and risk of COVID-19 with different severity.MethodsThrough a nested case–control study during January 31st to December 31st 2020, including 58,888 participants of the UK Biobank, we investigated the association of tonsillectomy with the future risk of mild and severe COVID-19, using binomial logistic regression. We further examined the associations of such surgery with blood inflammatory, lipid and metabolic biomarkers to understand potential mechanisms. Finally, we replicated the analysis of severe COVID-19 in the Swedish AMORIS Cohort (n = 451,960).ResultsTonsillectomy was associated with a lower risk of mild (odds ratio [95% confidence interval]: 0.80 [0.75–0.86]) and severe (0.87 [0.77–0.98]) COVID-19 in the UK Biobank. The associations did not differ substantially by sex, age, Townsend deprivation index, or polygenic risk score for critically ill COVID-19. Levels of blood inflammatory, lipid and metabolic biomarkers did, however, not differ greatly by history of surgical removal of tonsils. An inverse association between tonsillectomy and severe COVID-19 was also observed in the AMORIS Cohort, primarily among older individuals (> 70 years) and those with ≤ 12 years of education.ConclusionsSurgical removal of tonsils may be associated with a lower risk of COVID-19. This association is unlikely attributed to alterations in common blood inflammatory, lipid and metabolic biomarkers.

Neonatal overfeeding attenuates microgliosis and hippocampal damage in an infant rat model of pneumococcal meningitis.

Pneumococcal meningitis (PM) triggers apoptotic neuronal and progenitor cell death in the hippocampal dentate gyrus (DG), resulting in subsequent cognitive impairment. Microglia play a crucial role in PM-induced hippocampal damage. While the lasting effects of neonatal nutrition on health are well documented, the influence of early-life overfeeding on the host response to neuroinfections remains uncertain. This study aimed to examine whether neonatal overfeeding affects the outcome of PM in the hippocampus (HC). Overfeeding was induced by adjusting litter size immediately after birth. On the eleventh day of life, rats were intracisternally injected with Streptococcus pneumoniae or saline, followed by euthanasia after 24 hours for brain dissection. Histological analysis evaluated apoptosis in the DG and the extent of inflammatory infiltrate in the hippocampal fissure, while microgliosis was assessed by immunohistochemistry. The hippocampal transcriptome was analyzed using RNAseq, and the mRNA levels of specific inflammatory biomarkers were evaluated via RT-qPCR. Overfed rats exhibited 40.5% greater body mass compared to their normal-fed counterparts. Intriguingly, PM-induced apoptosis in the DG was 50% lower in overfed rats. This effect was accompanied by significant alterations in the hippocampal transcriptional profile, particularly the lack of activation of the Programmed cell death pathway in overfed infected animals. RT-qPCR analysis of Aif1 and examination of Iba1-immunostained cells revealed mild microgliosis in the HC of infected-overfed animals. This reduced microglial reaction may be attributed to the diminished activation of interferon signaling pathways, as disclosed by the transcriptome analysis, potentially preventing microglial priming. Additionally, evidence of reduced neuroinflammation in overfed rats with PM was observed through the milder activation of pathways associated with Toll-like receptors, interleukins, and chemokine signaling. Furthermore, overfed animals exhibited increased transcription of proinflammatory Il6 and anti-inflammatory Il10 genes, with the latter showing higher expression even in the absence of PM, suggesting a priming effect of overfeeding on hippocampal immune cells. This study sheds light on the complex interplay between early-life overfeeding, immune response, and neuroprotection in infant rats with PM. The findings demonstrate the neuroprotective impact of early-life overfeeding in the context of PM, linked to the modulation of microglial function.

Anti-inflammatory diet mitigate cardiovascular risks due to particulate matter exposure in women during pregnancy: A perspective cohort study from China

BackgroundParticulate matter (PM) exposure during pregnancy may increase cardiovascular risk (CVR). However, the specific time windows of exposure contributing to this association and the potential biological mechanisms underlying it remain unclear. ObjectiveTo determine the sensitive time window for CVR related to PM exposure. We investigated whether levels of inflammatory biomarkers mediate the relationship between PM exposure and CVR, and examined the potential impact of an anti-inflammatory diet on this association. MethodsFrom 2015 to 2021, 9294 pregnant women from three Hefei hospitals were included. We used a 1 × 1 km satellite dataset to assess PM1, PM2.5, and PM10 exposure. High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) were measured as inflammatory biomarkers. The empirical dietary inflammatory pattern (EDIP) score, based on a validated food frequency questionnaire. The CVR score was calculated using five clinical metrics based on American Heart Association criteria. ResultsWe found a significant association between PM exposure and increased CVR score, especially during the 2nd to 8th weeks of the first trimester. For every increase of 10-μg/m3 of PM1, PM2.5, and PM10, there was an associated increase in CVR of 0.51 (95%CI: 0.21, 082), 0.25 (95% CI: 0.11 to 0.39), and 0.29 (95% CI: 0.09 to 0.37), respectively. Mediation analysis revealed that the proportion of the association between PM1, PM2.5, and PM10 exposure and CVR mediated by inflammatory biomarkers was 24.3%, 22.4%, and 20.1%, respectively. Stratified analyses showed no positive correlation between PM exposure and CVR in the anti-inflammatory diet (low EDIP) group. The β coefficients were 0.52 for PM1 (95% CI: -0.06 to 1.11), 0.31 for PM2.5 (95% CI: -0.04 to 0.79), and 0.25 for PM10 (95% CI: -0.03 to 0.54). ConclusionsPM exposure, particularly during weeks 2–8 of pregnancy, correlates with CVR, partly mediated by levels of inflammatory biomarkers. An anti-inflammatory diet mitigates CVR associated with PM exposure.

Association of dietary insulinemic potential with disease severity and symptoms in patients with COVID-19

AimCOVID-19 has threatened people's lives in world. Studies showed that level of insulin is related to function of immune system and level of inflammation in body. In this study we aimed to evaluate the association between dietary insulinemic potential and level of inflammatory biomarkers, severity and symptoms of COVID-19. MethodsParticipants of this cross-sectional study were 684 people who recovered from COVID-19. Dietary intake of participants was assessed using 168-item food frequency questionnaire during telephone interview, then dietary insulinemic index and load (DII and DIL) calculated for each participants. Data related to study outcomes, include levels of inflammatory biomarkers, disease symptoms, lung infection, saturation of peripheral oxygen, Respiratory Rate, need for respiratory support, duration of disease, hospitalization, recovery from disease and need for respiratory support and score of life satisfaction were collected through an interview with participants and review of their medical records. ResultsAfter controlling for confounders, participants in the highest quartile of DIL had a significantly higher risk of severe COVID-19 (OR: 2.66, 95% CI: 1.01–7.04, Ptrend=0.035), risk of hospitalization (OR: 3.44, 95% CI: 2.27-7.64, Ptrend>0.001), fever (OR: 2.91, 95% CI: 8.08–1.05, Ptrend=0.042), chills (OR: 4.68, 95% CI: 1.77–12.37, Ptrend=0.002) and lower risk of weakness (OR: 0.28, 95% CI: 0.10–0.74, Ptrend=0.012) and myalgia (OR:0.26, CI: 0.10–0.45, Ptrend=0.006) compared to the lowest quartile. In addition our findings showed a significant positive association between DII and risk of fever (OR: 1.71 95% CI: 2.84–1.03, Ptrend=0.049). Our finding failed to find a significand association between DII and risk of sever COVID-19 and hospitalization. Moreover we did not find significant association between DII/DIL and duration of disease, other symptoms and outcomes. ConclusionsOur findings showed that higher DIL was associated with greater risk of sever COVID-19 and hospitalization. More detailed cohort studies are needed to confirm the findings.

Artificial intelligence driven definition of food preference endotypes in UK Biobank volunteers is associated with distinctive health outcomes and blood based metabolomic and proteomic profiles

BackgroundSpecific food preferences can determine an individual’s dietary patterns and therefore, may be associated with certain health risks and benefits.MethodsUsing food preference questionnaire (FPQ) data from a subset comprising over 180,000 UK Biobank participants, we employed Latent Profile Analysis (LPA) approach to identify the main patterns or profiles among participants. blood biochemistry across groups/profiles was compared using the non-parametric Kruskal–Wallis test. We applied the Limma algorithm for differential abundance analysis on 168 metabolites and 2923 proteins, and utilized the Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery (DAVID) to identify enriched biological processes and pathways. Relative risks (RR) were calculated for chronic diseases and mental conditions per group, adjusting for sociodemographic factors.ResultsBased on their food preferences, three profiles were termed: the putative Health-conscious group (low preference for animal-based or sweet foods, and high preference for vegetables and fruits), the Omnivore group (high preference for all foods), and the putative Sweet-tooth group (high preference for sweet foods and sweetened beverages). The Health-conscious group exhibited lower risk of heart failure (RR = 0.86, 95%CI 0.79–0.93) and chronic kidney disease (RR = 0.69, 95%CI 0.65–0.74) compared to the two other groups. The Sweet-tooth group had greater risk of depression (RR = 1.27, 95%CI 1.21–1.34), diabetes (RR = 1.15, 95%CI 1.01–1.31), and stroke (RR = 1.22, 95%CI 1.15–1.31) compared to the other two groups. Cancer (overall) relative risk showed little difference across the Health-conscious, Omnivore, and Sweet-tooth groups with RR of 0.98 (95%CI 0.96–1.01), 1.00 (95%CI 0.98–1.03), and 1.01 (95%CI 0.98–1.04), respectively. The Health-conscious group was associated with lower levels of inflammatory biomarkers (e.g., C-reactive Protein) which are also known to be elevated in those with common metabolic diseases (e.g., cardiovascular disease). Other markers modulated in the Health-conscious group, ketone bodies, insulin-like growth factor-binding protein (IGFBP), and Growth Hormone 1 were more abundant, while leptin was less abundant. Further, the IGFBP pathway, which influences IGF1 activity, may be significantly enhanced by dietary choices.ConclusionsThese observations align with previous findings from studies focusing on weight loss interventions, which include a reduction in leptin levels. Overall, the Health-conscious group, with preference to healthier food options, has better health outcomes, compared to Sweet-tooth and Omnivore groups.Graphical

Interleukin 1β And Interleukin-6 and Some Oxidants in Patients With Stable Angina

ROS play an essential physiological roles in the cellular homoeostasis and cell signaling under normal circumstances. The overexpression of ROS was involved in the pathological events of several diseases, including cardiovascular, because they cause damage to many cell structures.This study aims to evaluate the levels of inflammatory biomarkers, [interleukin-6 (IL-6) and interleukin-1beta (IL-1β)] in stable angina patients and their relationship with oxidative stress. The current study is a case-control one performed on 88 patients with stable angina and 44 people as a control group attending the Nasiriyah Heart Center from August 2023 to March 2024. All cases were diagnosed by cardiologists and confirmed by laboratory investigations. Blood samples (10 ml) were collected from patients. Serum was isolated after centrifugation and stored at -20°C. Serum CK-MB, MYO and Trop I were determined by electro-chemiluminescence immunoassay. While, the ELISA was employed to assess the levels of human IL-6, human IL-1 β, SOD, (GSH-Px/ GPX), total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL, VLDL and HDL, using the kits from Solarbio, China. The patients with stable angina didn’t show significant variation in the serum level of troponin I and CK-MB in comparison with control, while serum myoglobin level was significantly increased in patients with stable angina compared to control. Although the level of total cholesterol was insignificantly increased, but the levels of triglyceride (TG), VLDL-C and LDL-C were significantly increased, while the serum level of HDL-C was significantly declined in comparison with control. The serum levels IL-6 and IL-1β, in addition to activities of SOD and GPx were increased significantly in patients of angina compared to control. We could conclude that IL-1β, IL-6, SOD and GPx are increased in stable angina. Inflammatory events and oxidative stress could play an important roles in initiation of atherosclerosis and subsequent angina.

The Effect of Metformin Therapy on Serum IL-33 and ST-2 Receptor Levels in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Introduction: Patients with type 2 had elevated levels of inflammatory biomarkers, including interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α). Significant elevations in serum levels of TNF-α and C-reactive protein were seen in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The IL-1 superfamily (IL-1β, IL-18, and IL-33) plays a crucial role in the development of diabetes mellitus by modifying immunological and inflammatory immune responses. Objectives: Little is known about the role of metformin in type 2 diabetes mellitus with respect to serum levels of IL-33 and ST-2 receptors. Therefore, in the present study, we sought toexplore such role. Patients and Methods: This single arm study included 45 type 2 diabetes patients with an age range of 30 to less than 60 years. Patients were given metformin (500 mg orally; for two months then, serum level of interleukin- 33 (IL-33) and ST-2 receptors were evaluated. Results: Treatment resulted in significant reduction of serum the suppression of tumorigenicity suppressor 2 (ST2) from 0.71 ±0.157 µg/mlto 0.59 ±0.11 µg/ml (p&lt;0.001), across with significant increase in serum IL-33 from 0.60 ±0.18 pg/ml to 0.75 ±0.13 pg/ml (p &lt; 0.001). Conclusion: Treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus using metformin revealed a crucial role for IL-33 and ST-2 receptors in glycemic control since increment in IL-33 and reduction in ST-2 receptors were associated with good glycemic control suggesting an inflammatory role in disease pathogenesis and response to treatment.

The Inflammatory Cytokines in Rheumatoid Arthritis and Their effect in the Progression and Pathogenesis of the Disease

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic autoimmune disorder affected the entire body. Aims of the study: Estimation of levels of inflammatory biomarkers in patients with RA and investigation of their impact on the development and severity of the disease. Methodology: This trial is a case-control one involving 44 patients with RA and 44 healthy age matched controls. Blood samples (5 ml) were collected from each participant, anti-CCP, RF, CRP, and ANA levels were measured using a Cobas device, while TNF-α, IL-10, IL-6 and IL-1β, were determined by an ELISA assay. Result: The results showed no significant variations in age, place of residence, and smoking between the RA and control groups, while there were significant variations in BMI, gender, and professional status. The levels of ESR, anti-CCP, RF, ANA, and CRP were significantly elevated in the RA group (P&lt;0.001 for each) than in the control group. The study of cytokine levels also showed significant variations between the two groups, with an increase in TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β, and a decrease in IL-10 in the patients. IL-1β was positively correlated with age, IL-6, IL-10, and TNF-α. Conclusions: The results indicate that cytokines levels such as TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, and CRP are elevated in RA patients, reflecting elevated inflammatory activity, while levels of IL-10 are decreased, which may contribute to the exacerbation of the disease.

Alterations in Immune Parameters ADP, ANA, IL-1, IL-6, IL-8, STAT-4, and TNF Alpha in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis and Osteoarthritis

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and osteoarthritis (OA) are chronic joint diseases with distinct pathophysiological mechanisms, but both involve alterations in immune parameters. This research investigates the alterations in several immune parameters, specifically adiponectin (ADP), antinuclear antibodies (ANA), interleukin-1 (IL-1), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-8 (IL-8), signal transducer and activator of transcription 4 (STAT-4), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF Alpha), in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and osteoarthritis (OA). Also, the current study aims to identify the changes occurring in the physiological and immune parameters of people suffering from rheumatic diseases, as Evaluation of Immunological Inflammatory biomarkers levels ADP, ANA, IL1, IL6, IL8, STAT-4 and TNF-α. Material &amp; Methods: A cross-sectional laboratory-based study with 90 patient’s participant was conducted. Using ELISA kits and laboratory tests, various biomarkers (Immunological Inflammatory biomarkers levels ADP, ANA, IL1, IL6, IL8, STAT-4 and TNF-α were measured among rheumatoid arthritis and Osteoarthritis patients. Results: The findings revealed elevated levels of IL-1, IL-6, IL-8, STAT-4, and TNF Alpha in RA patients, reflecting a heightened inflammatory state. In contrast, OA patients exhibited a more moderate increase in these parameters, suggesting differing immune activation pathways. ADP and ANA levels showed distinct variations between the two patient groups, indicating their potential roles in the pathogenesis and progression of RA and OA. Conclusion: These results contribute to a better understanding of the immune mechanisms underlying RA and OA, highlighting the importance of targeted therapeutic strategies to manage these conditions effectively. Further research is recommended to explore the clinical implications of these findings and develop personalized treatment approaches.

Evaluation of the protective dose-dependent effect of metformin for induced osteoarthritis in rats.

To evaluate the potential protective effect of metformin against osteoarthritis development in rats. The experimental study was conducted at the Iraqi Centre for Cancer Research and Medical Genetics, Mustansiriyah University, Baghdad, Iraq, from December 2021 to February 2022, and comprised male Sprague- Dawley mice who were divided into 5 equal groups: negative control group, osteoarthritis group subjected to monoiodoacetate induction, positive control group treated with celecoxib 30mg/kg, metformin 100mg/kg group, and metformin 200mg/kg group. Body mass index, inflammatory biomarkers, and serum C-terminal cross-linked telopeptide of type II collagen levels were noted for all the animals. Data was analysed using SPSS 24. Of the 35 mice, 7(20%) were in each of the 5 groups. Compared to the osteoarthritis group, metformintreated mice showed significantly reduced body mass index, inflammatory biomarker levels, and blood levels of Cterminal cross-linked telopeptide of type II collagen (p=0.05). Metformin 200mg/kg treatment had more beneficial effects than 100mg/kg dose on inflammatory biomarkers and serum C-terminal cross-linked telopeptide of type II collagen (p=0.05). A beneficial protective effect against the onset of osteoarthritis was produced by metformin in a dosedependent way. Additionally, metformin could lessen cartilage damage as demonstrated by a decrease in the serum levels of C-terminal cross-linked telopeptide of type II collagen in the osteoarthritis group.