Serum Interleukin-6 Research Articles

CNSC-42. PROGNOSTIC VALUE OF INTERLEUKIN-6 IN PATIENTS WITH GLIOBLASTOMA

Abstract Interleukin-6 (IL-6), a pro-inflammatory cytokine, has been implicated in the invasiveness and progression of glioma. However, the association between serum IL-6 levels at specific time points during treatment and patient prognosis remains unclear. This study was aimed to investigate the prognostic value of IL-6 measured at milestones in the treatment of patients with glioblastoma. Between January 2021 and December 2022, consecutive patients with newly diagnosed glioblastoma were enrolled. Serum IL-6 concentrations were measured at different time points, including preoperative, pre- and post-radiation period, and two-month intervals thereafter. Patients with incomplete data were excluded, and increase of IL-6 values due to the overlapping with systemic infection were also excluded from the analysis. During the study period, 26 patients and 270 IL-6 levels at different time points were evaluated. The median follow-up time was 11 months. Tumor progression was evident in 19 patients (73.1%) and 13 patients (50%) were expired. Preoperative and pre-radiation IL-6 values were available in 20 and 23 patients with the median 5.25 and 4.5 pg/mL, respectively. With the cut-off value of pre-radiation IL-6 at 4.5 pg/mL, high IL-6 group showed significantly worse progression-free survival and overall survival than low IL-6 group (p = 0.027 and 0.008, respectively). However, IL-6 levels at other milestone were not related to the patient prognosis. Serum IL-6 elevation in pre-radiation period is an unfavorable prognostic factor in tumor progression and patient survival. Further research is necessary to validate the prognostic role of IL-6 and explore the underlying mechanisms.

Investigation of Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Properties of Berberine Nanomicelles: In vitro and In vivo Studies.

In the present study, neuroprotective effects of berberine (BBR) and berberine nanomicelle (BBR-NM) against lipopolysaccharides (LPS)-induced stress oxidative were investigated, and compared by evaluating their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities in PC12 cells, and rat brains. A fast, green, and simple synthesis method was used to prepare BBR-NMs. The prepared BBR-NMs were then characterized using dynamic light scattering (DLS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). In vitro experiments were carried out on the LPS-treated PC12 cell lines to investigate the anti-cytotoxic and antioxidant properties of BBR-NM and BBR. The results showed that BBR-NMs with a diameter of ~100 nm had higher protective effects against ROS production and cytotoxicity induced by LPS in PC12 cells in comparison with free BBR. Moreover, in vivo experiments indicated that the activity levels of antioxidant enzymes, such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx), increased in the brain of LPS-treated rats administrated with BBR-NM at the optimum dose of 100 mg.kg-1. BBR-NM administration also resulted in decreased concentration of lipid peroxidation (MDA) and pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as Serum interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). Overall, BBR-NM demonstrated higher neuroprotective effects than free BBR, making it a promising treatment for improving many diseases caused by oxidative stress and inflammation.

Levels of IL-6 and IL-8 in complicated versus uncomplicated urinary tract infection

Background: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the world's most frequent infectious diseases, affecting 150 million people each year and resulting in severe morbidity and high medical expenditures. UTIs can be clinically defined as uncomplicated UTIs (uUTIs) or complicated UTIs (cUTIs) to differentiate infections of benign origin from those with a higher risk of recurrence or progression to severe pathology. The aim of this study was to evaluate interleukin-6 (IL-6) and IL-8 as potential biomarkers in differentiating complicated and uncomplicated Methods: Ninety samples of urine were collected. There were 43 samples from healthy controls and 47 samples from UTI patients, those who have been clinically diagnosed with UTIs by the urologist. The serum IL-6 and IL-8 were measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and commercially available kits. Results: The levels of both IL-6 and IL-8 were significantly higher in UTI patient then in control subjects (p=0.001, p=0.001). A significant difference was observed in the mean of level IL-6 between culture positive UTI patients and culture negative UTI patients (p=0.014). In addition, the type of bacterial growth, a significant difference was observed in the mean of serum IL-6 and IL-8 level in UTI caused by gram negative bacteria in comparison with UTI caused by gram positive bacteria. Conclusion: High levels of IL-6 are associated with the growth of gram-negative bacteria, and this indicates that gram-negative bacteria could induce stronger inflammatory responses than gram-positive bacteria. IL-8 levels are higher in UTIs caused by gram-negative bacteria. This result further supported the evidence that gram-negative bacteria are potent inducers of inflammatory responses.

Ononin delays the development of osteoarthritis by down-regulating MAPK and NF-κB pathways in rat models.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is featured as cartilage loss, joint pain and loss of labor, which the inflammatory reaction may play critical roles. Ononin is an isoflavone isolating from medicinal plants and has anti-inflammatory effects. Our study investigated the anti-inflammation response of ononin on OA. Anterior cruciate ligament transection (ACLT)-induced OA operation was used to establish research model, then treated with ononin for 8 weeks. The condition of joint injury was assessed using pathological staining. The concentration of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in serum were measured by Elisa kit. The expression of collagen II and matrix metalloproteinase 13 (MMP-13) proteins to assess cartilage metabolism level by immunohistochemistry and Western blot. We detected the expression of proteins involved in the MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathways. Finally, we used molecular docking to assess the affinity of ononin for the target proteins ERK1/2, JNK1/2, p38 and p65. Our results confirmed that ononin ameliorated cartilage impairment through histopathological analysis by improving the morphological structures and cartilage tidal lines and decreasing Osteoarthritis Research Society International (OARSI) scores in OA rats. Moreover, ononin inhibited the secretion of above factors in OA rats. Furthermore, ononin has been shown to improve cartilage content levels in OA rats. In addition, ononin inhibited the reactivity of MAPK and NF-κB pathways in OA rats. And molecular docking indicated the ligand molecules could stably bind to the proteins of above receptors. Our results demonstrated that ononin may ameliorate cartilage damage and inflammatory response in OA rats by downgrading MAPK and NF-κB pathways, thus identifying ononin as a potential novel drug to treat OA.

Serum Biomarkers IL-6 and HIF-1α in Rosacea: Assessing Their Significance in Disease Pathogenesis and Telangiectasia Formation

Introduction: Rosacea, a chronic inflammatory disease primarily affecting the central part of the face, is a complex condition whose mechanisms are still not fully understood. However, research has indicated a positive correlation between two molecules: Hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) and Interleukin-6 (IL-6). The levels of HIF-1α in rosacea patients have yet to be assessed. Objectives: In this study, the aim was to assess the levels of HIF-1α and IL-6 in patients with rosacea in relation to both the severity of the disease and the primary and secondary clinical manifestations of the condition. Methods: The study included patients diagnosed with rosacea and sex-and age-matched healthy volunteers (N: 40, N: 40). Serum HIF-1α and IL-6 levels were quantified using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results: When compared to the control group, serum levels of HIF-1α and IL-6 were significantly elevated in the patient group. A positive correlation was found between the level of HIF-1α and the severity of the disease (r: 0.374, p: 0.017). Furthermore, a significant association was observed between the presence of telangiectasia, one of the primary symptoms, and HIF-1α (r: 2.401, p: 0.016). Conclusion: The significantly elevated levels of IL-6 and HIF-1α in patients with rosacea compared to the control group support the hypothesis that they play roles in the pathogenesis of the disease. The correlation of HIF-1α with the severity of the disease and its significant elevation in patients with telangiectasia suggest its potential involvement in the pathogenesis of the disease, particularly in the formation of telangiectasia.

Evaluation of the Diversities in the Inflammatory Responses in Cats With Bacterial and Viral Infections.

Understanding the nature of inflammatory responses in cats with bacterial and viral infections is essential for accurately managing the infection. This study aimed to investigate the diversities of inflammatory responses between bacterial and viral infections in cats to figure out their role in the pathophysiology of these infections. Seventy-five owned cats were included in the study. The evaluations were performed based on three groups: healthy control, bacterial infection group (those with bronchopneumonia and gastrointestinal tract and urinary tract infections) and viral infection group (21 with feline coronavirus [FCoV], 3 with feline leukaemia virus [FeLV] and 1 with feline calicivirus), each containing 25 individuals. Total and differential leukocyte counts, C-reactive protein (CRP), transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) and interleukin-10 (IL-10) concentrations were assessed in the blood samples collected from sick and healthy animals. No statistically significant difference was noted in serum TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-10 concentrations of the infected cats (p=0.996, p=0.160 and p=0.930, respectively). Serum TGF-β concentration in the viral infection group was reduced compared to the healthy control (p=0.001). In contrast, WBC count and IL-6 and CRP concentrations were increased in the cats with bronchopneumonia, gastrointestinal tract infections and urinary tract infections compared to the healthy control and viral infection groups (p=0.001, p=0.001 and p=0.001, respectively). This study revealed significant differences between bacterial and viral infections regarding the fashion of inflammatory responses in cats, and the relevant data will undoubtedly contribute to the management and control of feline infectious diseases, rendering the development of novel therapeutic strategies.

Fructose restriction has beneficial effects on adipose tissue distribution but not on serum adipokine levels: Post-hoc analysis of a double-blind randomized controlled trial.

We aimed to examine the effects of isocaloric fructose restriction on adipose tissue distribution and serum adipokines. Individuals with BMI >28 kg/m2 (n = 44) followed a 6-week fructose-restricted diet and were randomly allocated to (double-blind) oral supplementation with fructose (control) or glucose (intervention) powder three times daily. Visceral (VAT) and subcutaneous (SAT) adipose tissue was quantified with MRI. Serum interleukin 6 and 8, tumour necrosis factor alpha and adiponectin levels were measured with sandwich immunoassay. BMI decreased in both groups, but the change did not differ between groups (-0.1 kg/m2, 95%CI: -0.3; 0.5). SAT decreased statistically significantly in the control group (-23.2 cm3, 95%CI: -49.4; -4.1), but not in the intervention group. The change in SAT did not differ between groups (29.6 cm3, 95%CI: -1.2; 61.8). No significant differences in VAT were observed within or between study arms. The VAT/SAT ratio decreased statistically significantly in the intervention group (-0.02, 95%CI: -0.04; -0.003) and the change was significantly different between groups (-0.03, 95%CI: -0.54; -0.003). Serum adipokine levels were not affected by the intervention. This study shows that a fructose-restricted diet resulted in a favourable change in adipose tissue distribution, but did not affect serum adipokines. Further studies are warranted to clarify the underlying mechanisms how fructose affects adipose tissue distribution.

Evaluation of aortic inflammation in marfan syndrome patients with 18-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission and computed tomography

Abstract Background The role of inflammation in Marfan Syndrome (MS) has been well studied in current research. These studies have investigated the role of serum Interleukin 6 (IL-6), Transforming Growth Factor-b (TGF-b) and Macrophage Colony Stimulating Factor (MCSF) as biomarkers of disease severity and progression. Surgical repair is the recommended treatment of aortic aneurysms when aortic diameter reaches the indication threshold. It has been observed however that dissection may occur even before this threshold is reached. 18-fluorodeoxyglucose (18 F-FDG) positron emission tomography / computed tomography (PET/CT) is the gold standard imaging modality to noninvasively assess vascular inflammation. Purpose Our aim was to investigate whether MS patients have increased aortic wall inflammation as assessed by 18F-FDG PET/CT, and the relationship between aortic wall inflammation with serum levels of IL-6, TGF-b and MCSF. Methods The study population consisted of fifteen MS patients and seventeen sex and age matched controls. In all subjects, serum levels of circulating IL-6, TGF-b and MCSF were measured. In PET/CT, the arterial target-to-background ratio (TBR) was calculated for aortic root (AR), ascending aorta(As), aortic arch (AA) and descending aorta (DA). Also, all patients were assessed with transthoracic echocardiography where the diameters of AR, As, AA, and DA were estimated at baseline and were reexamined at the end of the follow up period. Results TBR for MS vs. controls was 2.17±0.75 vs 2.01±0.36, p=0.75 at AR; 2.15±0.67 vs 1.84±0.35, p=0.040 at As; 2.16±0.64 vs 1.70±0.25, p=0.03 at AA and 1.97±0.52 vs 1.83±0.42, p=0.23 at DA respectively. Additionally, Marfan patients had increased levels of serum biomarkers. However, this difference was statistically significant (SS) only for IL-6 serum levels; 2.17±0.46 vs 1.08±0.12 p=0.011 and IL-6 was SS associated with AR TBR (rho=0.572, p=0.033), As TBR (rho=0.604, p=0.022) and DA TBR (rho=0.714, p=0.004). Two of our patients were operated due to severe dilatation of the aortic root and the surgical specimens showed aortic wall inflammation of moderate severity along with fibrosis. Conclusion MS patients have increased of aortic wall inflammation as assessed by 18F-FDG PET/CT, a finding that highlights the role of inflammation in the pathway of disturbed TGF signaling. Further research is needed to determine its prognostic role and value in identifying patients with an indication for early intervention.

Evaluating of IL-34 as a Biomarker for Asthma in Children: Findings from Dhi Qar Province, Iraq

Objective: To investigate the possible role of interleukin-34 in development of asthma in children and determine its effectiveness as a biomarker for monitoring disease severity. Methods: the current study focused on asthmatic children who were admitted to the two hospitals in Dhi-Qar province: Muhammad Al-Moussawi Children's Hospital, Bint Al-Huda Teaching Hospital for Women and Children. The period of study was placed between December 2023 to March 2024. Specifically included (85) asthmatic children’s patients, their ages ranged from 6 months to 6 years old. To compare the results with healthy control subjects (85) children of the same ages and sex as the patients were randomly selected from the local community and hospital. The concentration level of serum interleukin-34 was measured by Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results: the present study revealed a striking difference in IL-34 concentrations between asthma patients and controls. Asthma patients exhibited significantly elevated IL-34 levels (409.4±114.7 pg/ml) compared to their healthy counterparts (307.6±56.43 pg/ml), with a p-value of <0.001.

Predictive value of Der p 2-specific IgE for subcutaneous immunotherapy in children with allergic rhinitis

Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (Der p) subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT) has demonstrated efficacy in clinical trials of childhood allergic rhinitis (AR). Currently, there is a lack of some generally accepted biomarkers that may predict the clinical response to SCIT to eventually achieve personalized therapy. In this study, 28 children with AR received Der p SCIT for 26–30 months at baseline, and four efficacy endpoints, serum interleukin (IL)-5, periostin, Der p-specific IgE (sIgE), and Der p sIgG4, were measured by ELSIA. Clinical symptoms and characteristics were assessed by questionnaires, and the associations among periostin, Der p 2 sIgE and clinical efficacy were analyzed. The results showed that SCIT demonstrated a significant reduction in Der p 1 sIgE (P < 0.05) and Der p 2 sIgE (P < 0.01), an increase in Der p sIgG4 (P < 0.001) and an improvement in clinical efficacy at the fourth efficacy endpoint compared with that at baseline. A positive linear correlation was found in serum periostin and Der p sIgE (P < 0.05), Der p sIgG4 (P < 0.05), and clinical efficacy. Importantly, the concentration of serum Der p 2 sIgE showed a positive linear correlation with clinical efficacy and serum periostin (P < 0.05). These results suggest that SCIT can result in reduced type 2 cytokines and Der p sIgE and has long-term efficacy in children with AR. Der p 2 sIgE has a positive linear correlation with clinical efficiency and serum periostin and may be a useful biomarker for the prediction of SCIT.

Effects of moxibustion in improving synovitis in adjuvant arthritis rats by regulating synovial GPR43 and peripheral blood Th17/Treg balance

To observe the effects of moxibustion on G protein-coupled receptor 43 (GPR43) and helper T cell 17 (Th17)/regulatory T cell (Treg) balance in rats with adjuvant arthritis (AA), so as to investigate the partial mechanism of moxibustion therapy on rheumatoid arthritis (RA). A total of 24 Wistar rats were randomly divided into a normal group, a model group and a moxibustion group, with 8 rats in each group. The AA rat model was replicated using wind, cold and moisture environmental factors + Freund's complete adjuvant (CFA) injection method. In the moxibustion group, moxibustion was performed on bilateral "Zusanli" (ST36) and "Shenshu" (BL23) for 20 min/time, once daily, for 21 d. The changes of joint swelling degree (JSD) and arthritis index (AI) were observed in each group of rats. Transmission electron microscopy and HE staining were used to examine changes in the cellular structure of the ankle joint synovial tissue in each group. Western blot analysis was employed to detect the expression levels of GPR43 in the synovial tissue of the ankle joints. Flow cytometry was used to measure the percentages of Treg and Th17 in peripheral blood. ELISA was used to determine the contents of interleukin-10 (IL-10) and transforming growth factor-β 1 (TGF-β1) in serum. Compared with the normal group, the JSD and AI in the model group increased before and after treatment (P<0.01), with significant synovial pathological and ultrastruct ural injury observed. Additionally, compared with the normal group, the expression of GPR43 in the synovial tissue decreased (P<0.01), the Treg percentage in peripheral blood decreased (P<0.01) and the Th17 percentage increased (P<0.01), serum IL-10 and TGF-β1 contents decreased in the model group (P<0.01). Compared with the model group, the moxibustion group exhibited a significant reduction in JSD and AI after treatment (P<0.01), the degree of pathological and ultrastruct ural damage in the synovium decreased, the expression of GPR43 in the synovial tissue increased (P<0.05), the Treg percentage in peripheral blood increased (P<0.01) and the Th17 percentage decreased (P<0.01), serum IL-10 and TGF-β1 contents increased (P<0.01). The relative expression of GPR43 in synovial tissue was positively correlated with the percentage of Treg in peripheral blood (r=0.967, P<0.01). Moxibustion can significantly improve the inflammatory response in the synovial membrane of AA rats. The mechanism may be related to moxibustion restoring the Th17/Treg balance through regulating GPR43.

Relationship of thyroid parameters with chronic inflammation in patients with euthyroid type 2 diabetes

AimsWe evaluated the association of multiple thyroid parameters with the levels interleukin 6 (IL6) and interleukin 8 (IL8) in patients with euthyroid type 2 diabetes (T2D).MethodsA total of 166 adults with euthyroid T2D were examined. Serum IL6, IL8, triiodothyronine (FT3), free thyroxin (FT4), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), five thyroid sensitivity indexes (FT3/FT4, TSH index [TSHI], thyrotroph T4 resistance index [TT4RI], thyroid feedback quantile-based index by FT3 [TFQIFT3], and TFQIFT4), and biochemical parameters were determined.ResultsThe median age was 64 years (IQR: 54.75,70) and the median duration of diabetes was 10 years (IQR: 3,18). Patients with high levels of IL6 (≥2.38 pg/mL) had lower levels of FT3 and TFQIFT3 (P&amp;lt;0.05). Patients with high levels of IL8 (≥18.1 pg/mL) had lower levels of TSH and higher levels of FT4 (P&amp;lt;0.05). IL6 was negatively correlated with FT3 (r=−0.359, P&amp;lt;0.001), TFQIFT3 (r=−0.273, P=0.009), and FT3/FT4 (r=−0.22, P=0.037). IL8 was negatively correlated with TSH (r=−0.256, P=0.01), TSHI (r=−0.226, P=0.033), and TT4RI (r=−0.244, P=0.021). Binary logistic regression analysis with multiple adjusted models showed that a high level of IL6 was negatively associated with FT3 (aOR: 0.529; 95%CI: 0.302, 0.926, P=0.026), and that a high level of IL8 was negatively associated with TSH (aOR: 0.343; 95%CI: 0.155, 0.759; P=0.008) and TT4RI (aOR: 0.398;95%CI: 0.191, 0.831; P=0.014).ConclusionPatients with euthyroid T2D who had lower levels of FT3 had significantly higher levels of IL6, and those with lower levels of TSH and TT4RI had significantly higher levels of IL8.

Interactions between the human milk oligosaccharide 2′-fucosyllactose and Bifidobacterium longum subspecies infantis in influencing systemic immune development and function in piglets

IntroductionThe oligosaccharide 2′-fucosyllactose (2′-FL) is a predominant component of human milk, serving as a prebiotic for gut microbiota and influencing immune development in infants. Bifidobacterium longum subspecies infantis (B. infantis) is a commensal bacterium found in breastfed infants. Both 2′-FL and a specific strain of B. infantis, Bi-26™, are commercially available. This study investigates the potential synbiotic relationship between 2′-FL and Bi-26™ on immune development.MethodsTwo-day-old piglets (n = 53) were randomized in a 2 × 2 design, receiving either a commercial milk replacer ad libitum without (CON) or with 1.0 g/L 2′-FL (FL). Piglets in each diet were further randomized to receive either glycerol stock alone or Bi-26™ (109 CFU) (BI and FLBI) orally once daily. On postnatal day (PND) 34/35, animals were euthanized, and blood was collected for serum cytokine analysis. Additionally, peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were isolated for ex vivo stimulation and flow cytometry analysis. Serum and ex vivo cytokines were analyzed using a multivariate model. All other outcomes were analyzed using a two-way ANOVA, considering prebiotic and probiotic fixed effects. The significance level was set at a p value &amp;lt;0.05, with trends reported for 0.05 &amp;lt; p &amp;lt; 0.1.ResultsImmune cell populations in PBMCs were unaffected by the experimental treatment. However, serum interleukin (IL)-1RA, IL-1β, IL-12, and IL-18 were all higher (p &amp;lt; 0.05) in the FL group than in the CON group. In isolated PBMCs, lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation resulted in higher IL-1RA and a trend for higher IFN-γ secretion in the FL group vs. the CON group.Conclusion2′-FL stimulates a balanced cytokine profile in healthy piglets without changing immune cell populations. When immune cells are stimulated ex vivo with LPS, 2′-FL primes T-cells for a proinflammatory response, which is moderated by co-administration of Bi-26™.

Влияние избыточной массы тела и ожирения на спирометрические, гематологические показатели, уровень общего иммуноглобулина Е и интерлейкина-6 в сыворотке крови у детей и подростков с бронхиальной астмой

There is undoubtedly insufficient number of studies dedicated to the interleukin-6 (IL-6) in blood serum of children and adolescents with bronchial asthma (BA) and those are contradictory. Connection between the IL-6 serum level and systemic markers of type 2 inflammation in BA in children and adolescents depending on the nutritional status remains a subject to discussion as well. The purpose of this research was to study the effect of excess body weight (BW) and obesity on spirometric, hematological parameters, total immunoglobulin E (IgE), IL-6 levels in blood serum of children and adolescents with BA. Materials and methods used: a single-center observational cross-sectional pilot study of 76 adolescents aged 6 to 17 y/o (75% (57) boys) with BA was conducted. All were measured for anthropometric and spirometric parameters, body composition, hematological parameters, total IgE and IL-6 levels in blood serum. Dysanapsis was diagnosed when three conditions were simultaneously met: 1. high or high-to-normal zFVC (above 0.674), 2. normal zFEV1 (above -1.645), and 3. low FEV1/FVC index (below 80%). Results: the number of monocytes (109/l) in peripheral blood and the serum IL-6 level (pg/ml) were statistically significantly higher in the group of patients with overweight and obesity compared to patients with underweight/normal BW (0.55 [0.49; 0.77] v 0.51 [0.42; 0.58], p=0.043 and 1.99 [1.20; 5.78] v 1.28 [0.31; 2.43], p=0.002, respectively). In patients with excess BW and obesity, an inverse statistically significant relationship was found between the serum IL-6 level, zFEV1/FVC and the dysanapsis ratio (R=-0.53, p=0.009, R=-0.61, p=0.002, respectively). Conclusion: formation of an obstructive pattern in children and adolescents with BA with excess BW and obesity may be associated with non-T2-dependent inflammatory mechanisms.

Electroacupuncture preconditioning prevents urticaria by regulating inflammatory response in rats with urticaria

To observe the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) preconditioning at "Quchi" (LI11) and "Xuehai" (SP10) in prevention of urticaria. Twenty-four male SD rats were randomly divided into control, model and preconditioning of EA (Pre-EA) groups (8 rats/group). The urticaria model was established by intradermal injection of dilute allogeneic antioalbumin serum at the spots of the bilateral symmetry of the spine on the back, and followed by tail venous injection of mixture solution of egg albumin diluent, plus 0.5% Evans blue and normal saline. Ten days before the end of modeling, rats of the pre-EA group received EA stimulation of LI11 and SP10 for 20 min, once a day for 10 consecutive days. The times of rat's scratching the sensitized skin were recorded. HE staining method was used to observe the pathological changes of skin tissue, and toluidine blue staining method was used to observe the morphology of mast cells (MCs) in the skin, blood, mesentery, and peritoneal fluid, and calculate the degranulation rate. Immunohistochemical stainning was used to detect immunoglobulin E (IgE), histamine (HIS), and 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) expressions in subcutaneous tissue. NOD like receptor thermal domain associated protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome, apoptosis related granule protein (ASC), and cysteine aspartate aminotransferase 1 (Caspase-1) protein expression levels in skin tissue were detected by Western blot. The contents of serum interleukin(IL)-1β and IL-18 were detected using ELISA method. Compared with the control group, the scratching times, amount of Evans blue exudation of the sensitized blue spots, degranulation rate of MCs in skin, blood, mesentery and peritoneal fluid, the expression levels of IgE, HIS, 5-HT in subcutaneous tissue, protein expression levels of NLRP3, ASC, Caspase-1 in skin tissue, and the contents of serum IL-1β and IL-18 were significantly increased (P<0.01, P<0.05) in the model group. In comparison with the model group, the scratching times, amount of Evans blue exudation of the sensitized blue spots, degranulation rate of MCs, the expression levels of IgE, HIS, 5-HT in subcutaneous tissue, protein expression levels of NLRP3, ASC, Caspase-1 in skin tissue, and the contents of serum IL-1β and IL-18 in EA group were significantly decreased (P<0.01, P<0.05). EA preconditioning at LI11 and SP10 can prevent and treat UR by inhibiting inflammatory response, which is related to the regulation of pyroptosis.

Staphylea bumalda Alleviates Dextran Sulfate Sodium-Induced Ulcerative Colitis in Mice by Regulating Inflammatory Cytokines, Oxidative Stress, and Maintaining Gut Homeostasis

Staphylea bumalda is a rare medicine and edible shrub native to the temperate regions of Asia, possessing significant medicinal potential. In this study, the components of S. bumalda tender leaves and buds extract (SBE) were analyzed and identified by HPLC and LC/MS method, and the safety of SBE was evaluated through mouse acute toxicity models. The protective effects of SBE on dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced ulcerative colitis (UC) in mice were investigated in terms of inflammatory factor levels, oxidative stress, and gut microorganisms. Results showed that hyperoside, kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside, isorhoifolin, and rutin were the main components of the extract, and SBE demonstrated good safety in experimental mice. SBE could alleviate weight losing, disease activity index (DAI) raising, and colon shortening in mice. Pathological section results showed that the inflammatory cell infiltration decreased significantly, and the number of goblet cells increased significantly in the SBE group. After SBE treatment, interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) levels in serum were significantly decreased, and the levels of myeloperoxidase (MPO) and nitric oxide (NO) in colon tissues were significantly decreased. SBE inhibited gut inflammation by increasing Lactobacillus. In summary, SBE played a therapeutic role in UC mice by relieving colon injury, reducing inflammatory factor levels, and maintaining gut flora homeostasis. SBE is expected to become an auxiliary means to participate in the prevention and treatment of UC.

Relationship Between Serum Interleukin-6 Levels, Systemic Immune-Inflammation Index, and Other Biomarkers Across Different Rheumatoid Arthritis Severity Levels.

Background Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by joint inflammation, pain, and progressive disability. Identifying biomarkers that accurately reflect disease severity is crucial for effective management. Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is a pro-inflammatory cytokine involved in the pathogenesis of RA, and the systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) is emerging as a useful marker of systemic inflammation. This study aims to explore the relationship between serum IL-6 levels, SII, and various biomarkers to better predict disease severity in RA patients. Objective To determine the relationship between serum IL-6 levels and the SII, along with various biomarkers, across different severity levels for predicting the severity of RA in patients. Methods This cross-sectional, observational study was conducted at the Mardan Medical Complex from January 2024 to August 2024, involving 67 RA patients.Clinical assessments included demographic data, disease activity (DAS28), pain (VAS), joint damage (Larsen score), and functional status (HAQ-DI). Serum IL-6 levels, along with other biomarkers such as C-reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and the SII, were measured through fasting blood samples. Statistical analyses, including density plots, scatter plots, boxplots with ANOVA, and random forest models, were performed to explore associations between IL-6 and all other variables. Significance was set at p < 0.05. Results The study included 67 RA patients (mean age: 41.79 ± 10.51 years, 53.73% male). Elevated IL-6 levels (mean: 80.28 ± 35.27 pg/mL) were strongly associated with disease severity. Patients with DAS28 > 5.5 had IL-6 levels over 100 pg/mL, while those in remission had around 40 pg/mL. IL-6 levels correlated with joint damage (100 pg/mL in severe cases) and pain (over 120 pg/mL for severe pain). Patients with metabolic and cardiovascular comorbidities had the highest IL-6 levels, particularly with diabetes and hypertension (98.6 pg/mL) or cardiovascular disease (119.3 pg/mL). IL-6 correlated strongly with CRP (r = 0.65), ESR (r = 0.51), and SII (r = 0.62). Regression confirmed IL-6 as an independent predictor of severity (p < 0.001), with comorbidities being key predictors. Conclusion Elevated IL-6 and SII levels serve as critical markers for predicting the severity of RA. Addressing these markers may lead to more targeted and effective therapeutic strategies for managing disease progression.

Clinical characteristics of severe influenza as a risk factor for febrile seizures in children: a retrospective analysis.

To retrospectively analyze the clinical characteristics and independent risk factors of severe influenza combined with febrile seizures, and to provide more basis for early clinical intervention. A total of 161 children with severe influenza were collected as study subjects and divided into convulsive (FC) group (40 cases) and non-convulsive (NFC) group (121 cases) according to whether they had febrile seizures. The demographic characteristics and clinical data of the two groups were analyzed. Multivariate logistic regression was used to analyze the risk factors of severe influenza combined with febrile seizures. The predictive efficacy was evaluated by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. (1) Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, Serum interleukin 6 (IL-6) levels, Days from onset of Flu symptoms to hospitalization, cerebrospinal fluid protein (CSF-TP) levels and the influenza virus type A (FluA) infection rate were found to be independent risk factors for severe influenza combined with febrile seizures in children. (2) ROC curve analysis showed that the cut-off value of CRP, Serum IL-6, Days from onset of Flu symptoms to hospitalization and CSF-TP were 7.57 mg/L, 9.84 pg/ml, 4.5 days and 194.8 mg/L, respectively. Children with severe influenza with CRP ≥ 7.57 mg/L, Serum IL-6 ≥ 9.84 pg/ml, Days from onset of Flu symptoms to hospitalization ≤4.5 days, CSF-TP ≥ 194.8 mg/L and FluA had a significantly increased risk of febrile seizures. It is useful for clinicians to determine the risk of severe influenza combined with febrile seizures, to adjust the early treatment plan, and to reduce the incidence of critically ill patients.

Evaluation of Soluble Urokinase Plasminogen Activator Receptor in COVID-19 Patients

Background/Objectives: This retrospective study analyzed soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR) plasma levels alongside routine inflammatory markers, including the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte count ratio, C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), procalcitonin (PCT), and D-dimers in COVID-19 patients hospitalized during the Omicron wave of the pandemic. Methods: We measured plasma suPAR levels using a suPARnostic® Quick Triage kit. We divided COVID-19 patients into two groups based on the severity of SARS-CoV-2 infection according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) criteria. The logistic regression analysis tested the predictive value of the biomarkers. Results: We evaluated 160 consecutive COVID-19 patients hospitalized between January and August 2022. The cohort exhibited a high incidence of comorbidities, with an in-hospital mortality rate of 5.6%. Upon admission, the median suPAR plasma levels were not significantly different between patients with mild COVID-19 (n = 110) and those with moderate/severe disease (n = 50), with 7.25 ng/mL and 7.55 ng/mL, respectively. We observed significant differences (p &lt; 0.01) between the groups for CRP and IL-6 levels that were higher in moderate/severe disease than in mild infection. Additionally, suPAR plasma levels were above the normal range (0–2.00 ng/mL) in all patients, with a significant positive correlation identified between suPAR levels and serum IL-6, PCT, and creatinine levels. Conclusions: These findings indicate that COVID-19 during the Omicron wave is strongly associated with elevated suPAR levels; however, these levels do not directly correlate with the severity of SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Serum Albumin and Interleukin 6 Levels as Risk Factors of Morbidity and Mortality in Burn Patients

Serum Albumin and Interleukin 6 Levels as Risk Factors of Morbidity and Mortality in Burn Patients