Serum Levels Of IL-6 Research Articles

Cross-Sectional Analysis of IL-6, TNF-α, Adiponectin, Leptin, and Klotho Serum Levels in Relation to BMI Among Overweight and Obese Children Aged 10–14 in La Rioja, Spain

Background: Childhood obesity is a major public health concern, being linked to an increased risk of metabolic disorders and cardiovascular disease. Even in childhood, obesity is associated with systemic low-grade inflammation, which is a critical factor in the development of atherosclerosis and a predictor of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Objectives: To describe the prevalence of obesity and examine the relationship between IL-6, TNF-α, adiponectin, leptin, the leptin/adiponectin (L/A) ratio, and Klotho levels with BMI in children. Methods: This cross-sectional study included children aged 10–14 years from La Rioja, Spain. Participants were selected based on BMI criteria for overweight (85th–95th percentiles) and obesity (>95th percentile). Socio-demographic and anthropometric data and blood samples were collected and analyzed for IL-6, TNF-α, adiponectin, leptin, and Klotho. Results: A total of 340 participants were included, with 276 (81.2%) classified as normal weight and 64 (18.8%) as overweight or obese. Mean age was similar between groups (p = 0.40). Obesity was more prevalent in males (59.4%, p = 0.048). Obese participants had higher mean birth weight (p = 0.003), current height (p = 0.04), BMI (p < 0.0001), and abdominal circumference (p < 0.0001). BMI correlated positively with leptin (r = 0.54, p = 0.0008) and the L/A ratio (r = 0.40, p = 0.025), showing sex-specific differences. Conclusions: This study underscores leptin and the L/A ratio as potential biomarkers of metabolic dysregulation in childhood obesity, particularly in females. Longitudinal studies are needed to confirm these findings and assess the clinical utility of these biomarkers in pediatric obesity management.

Assessment of inflammatory markers in Acne vulgaris patients: serum IL-17, IL22, and IL-10

One of the four main factors in the pathophysiology of acne vulgaris (AV) is inflammation, which may be a primary or secondary process caused by Propionibacterium acnes. To counteract inflammatory mediators, the immune system possesses a variety of anti-inflammatory mechanisms. The data supporting the early involvement of the inflammatory pathway in the etiology of AV, a chronic, complex, inflammatory skin condition, has become more clear. This cell line's activators, Th17 cells, and the cytokines that follow are all probably important in initiating and maintaining the disease. The aim of this study is to determine the degree to which acne vulgaris is influenced by the interleukins IL-10, IL-17, and IL-22. Individualized patients in our study, sex-matched controls were included, and there were 42 male and 58 female AV patients, aged 12 to 30. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to measure the serum levels of IL-10, IL-17, and IL-22. The levels were then connected with the severity of acne. In cases, the serum levels of IL-10, IL-17, and IL-22 were 0.34±0.080, 0.13, 0.14±0.0035, 0.136-0.233, and 0.24±0.0142, 0.126-0.243 pg/ml, respectively, while in controls, they were 0.13±0.028, 0.10±0.0085, 0.14±0.0035, 0.117-0.126, and 0.22±0.0089, 0.114-0.127 pg/ml. For IL-10 and IL-17, there was a substantial difference in levels between patients and controls; however, for IL-22, the difference was negligible. The levels of IL-10 and IL-17 showed an extremely strong positive connection. This study came to the conclusion that IL-10 and IL-17 are important effectors in the pathophysiology of AV. In acne lesions, Th17 cells activated by IL-22 are probably the main source of IL-37.

Frailty and osteoporotic fractures represent mutual risks for each other with common physiological backgrounds

Abstract Frailty and osteoporosis are known to exacerbate each other. However, limited research is available on the shared pathophysiological factors contributing to osteoporotic fractures and frailty. This study aims to identify common factors associated with both the current frailty and the occurrence of incident vertebral fractures. A total of 912 postmenopausal Japanese women, 63.9 ± 10.0 years of age (mean ± SD), were included in the present study. Each participant’s baseline frailty status was assessed using a questionnaire about the five following items: Fatigue, Resistance, Ambulation, Inactivity, and Weight Loss. A score of 3 or above indicated the prevalence of frailty. The participants were then followed up for an average of 10.5 ± 7.5 years, during which 202 patients suffered incident vertebral fractures. The Cox proportional hazards model for incident vertebral fracture revealed that lumbar bone mineral density (HR 0.753, P<.001), adiponectin (HR 1.025, P=.021), Log IL-6 (HR 1.227, P=.029), prevalent vertebral fracture (HR 2.124, P<.001), and frailty status (HR 1.355, P=.002) were independent predictors of incident vertebral fractures. The factors associated with frailty status at baseline were assessed using logistic regression analysis, revealing that adiponectin (OR 1.063, P<.001), Log IL-6 (OR 2.94, P<.001), and prevalent vertebral fractures (OR 2.816, P<.001) were significantly associated with current frailty. Biochemical factors such as IL-6 and adiponectin were commonly associated with vertebral fractures and frailty. Additionally, frailty status was identified as an independent risk factor for vertebral fractures, while prevalent vertebral fractures were significantly associated with frailty. These findings clearly indicate that frailty and osteoporotic fractures represent mutual risks for each other, with serum levels of adiponectin and IL-6 serving as common physiological backgrounds.

Subacute Symptoms of Depression and Anxiety in Stress-Exposed Mice: Role of Schinus terebinthifolia Raddi Leaf Lectin (SteLL).

Anxiety and depression are leading causes of disability worldwide, often exacerbated by chronic stress. Schinus terebinthifolia Raddi. has been used in traditional medicine for several purposes. Among these, the use of bark-and-leaf tea and leaf decoction to treat depression has been reported. Previous studies showed that the S. terebinthifolia leaf lectin (SteLL) can ameliorate anxiety and depression symptoms in mice. To investigate SteLL as a compound from S. terebinthifolia leaf able to alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety in an unpredictable chronic mild stress (UCMS) animal model. Mice were subjected to four-week UCMS and then treated with SteLL at 2 and 4 mg/kg (i.p.) or with fluoxetine at 10 mg/kg i.p. (positive control) for 21 days. Behavioral assessments were conducted using the open field test, elevated plus maze, tail suspension test, and sucrose preference test. Serum corticosterone and inflammatory markers (cytokines) levels were determined. The levels of cytokine, oxidative stress indicators and monoamines in brain homogenates were also measured to understand the biochemical changes induced by SteLL treatment. SteLL treatment at both doses significantly (p < 0.05) alleviated the stress-induced behavior in mice, reducing the anxiety and depression signals in all tests. SteLL administration increased the brain levels of monoamines noradrenaline and serotonin in comparison with UCMS control mice that received only vehicle. SteLL reduced superoxide production, lipid peroxidation and improved reduced glutathione (GSH) levels in the brain. The lectin also increased serum and brain levels of anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-4, while reducing levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Serum corticosterone levels were not decreased by lectin treatment. Our findings highlight SteLL as a neuromodulatory agent from S. terebinthifolia leaves effective in subacute and stress-induced anxiety and depression through modulation of monoaminergic, oxidative stress, and inflammatory pathways. The data shows the potential of this lectin as a therapeutic agent for stress-related neuropsychological disorders.

Serum interleukin-6 and associated nociceptive parameters following subcutaneous infiltration of lidocaine alone, tramadol alone, and their combination in red Sokoto goat undergoing rumenotomy

The clinical practice of combining one or more drugs is gaining attention for enhancing efficacy, leading to quicker onset of action, longer duration of effect and minimising side effects. Previous studies showed that combining lignocaine and tramadol in an epidural injection significantly extended the duration of analgesia produced when compared to the use of lignocaine alone. The significance of this study is aiming toward improved pain management during surgery, especially in goats. In this study, the analgesic effects of subcutaneously administered lignocaine alone (7 mgkg-1), tramadol alone (3 mgkg-1), and their respective combination of 3.5 and 15 mgkg-1 on pain in goats undergoing rumenotomy were compared. The experiment was carried out on fifteen healthy (N=15) Red Sokoto goats. Blood was drawn from the jugular vein at seven distinct time intervals during the course of the experiment (0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 hours) and serum was extracted. The severity of pain was ascertained by measuring serum level of IL-6 and the nociceptive response to a pain stimulus using a clinical algometer. This study revealed that the combination of lidocaine (03.78 minutes) and tramadol (3.68 minutes) has a quicker onset of action (2.01±0.42 minutes) and a more extended duration of activity (79.5 minutes) when compared to lidocaine (60 minutes) and tramadol (55.75 minutes) administered separately. There was no significant difference (P&gt;0.05) in serum IL-6 before and after the administration of lidocaine, tramadol, or their combination. This study has demonstrated that the lidocaine-tramadol combination at respective doses of 3.5 and 1.5 mgkg-1 has a quicker onset and longer duration of activity when subcutaneously administered at the surgical site, in comparison with lidocaine alone and tramadol alone at respective doses of 7 and 3 mgkg-1. However, there was no remarkable difference in the serum pain biomarker (IL-6) among the three different treatments. Subcutaneous infiltration of the combination of lidocaine at 3.5 mgkg-1 with tramadol at 1.5 mgkg-1 via the inverted L block technique can be employed as an alternative to conventional lidocaine alone to achieve loco-regional analgesia for a more prolonged duration in goats to conduct laparotomy. Clinically, this drug combination could be useful in surgeries requiring extended regional anaesthesia, reducing the need for repeated dosing, hence improving animal welfare.

Effect of Immunoadsorption on clinical presentation and immune alterations in COVID-19-induced and/or aggravated ME/CFS.

Autoreactive antibodies (AAB) are currently being investigated as causative or aggravating factors during post-COVID. In this study we analyze the effect of immunoadsorption therapy on symptom improvement and the relationship with immunological parameters in post-COVID patients exhibiting symptoms of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) induced or aggravated by an SARS-CoV-2 infection. This observational study includes 12 post-COVID patients exhibiting a predominance of ME/CFS symptoms alongside increased concentrations of autonomic nervous system receptors (ANSR) autoantibodies and neurological impairments. We found that following immunoadsorption therapy, the ANSR autoantibodies were nearly eliminated from the patients' blood. The removal of IgG antibodies was accompanied by a decrease of pro-inflammatory cytokines including IL4, IL2, IL1β, TNF and IL17A serum levels, and a significant reduction of soluble spike protein. Notably, a strong positive correlation between pro-inflammatory cytokines and ASNR-AABs β1, β2, M3, and M4 was observed in spike protein-positive patients, whereas no such correlation was evident in spike protein-negative patients. 30 days post-immunoadsorption therapy, patients exhibited notable improvement in neuropsychological function and a modest but statistically significant amelioration of hand grip strength was observed. However, neither self-reported symptoms nor scores on ME/CFS questionnaires showed a significant improvement and a rebound of the removed proteins occurring within a month.

Clinical values of serum platelet-activating factor in hypertensive disorders complicating pregnancy.

Serum platelet-activating factor (PAF) was proven to be associated with gestational hypertension. However, the predictive value of serum PAF at early pregnancy for the occurrence and outcomes of hypertensive disorders complicating pregnancy (HDCP) remained unclear. The demographic and clinical characteristics of patients were compared among the different subgroups. The serum PAF level was determined using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The predictive value of serum PAF for the occurrence and outcomes of HDCP was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. The correlation of serum PAF with blood pressure was assessed using Spearman analysis. Both systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure were significantly higher in HDCP patients, as well as the serum levels of TNF-α and IL-1β at diagnosis/enrollment, while serum levels of IL-10 showed the opposite trend. Serum PAF levels were significantly higher in patients with HDCP compared to normal pregnant women. Furthermore, serum PAF levels were higher in HDCP patients with mild preeclampsia compared to those with gestational hypertension and even more elevated in HDCP patients with severe preeclampsia at the early pregnancy stage and at diagnosis. In HDCP patients, increased serum PAF levels at early pregnancy and at diagnosis were associated with poor outcomes. Additionally, serum PAF levels could predict the occurrence of HDCP and poor outcomes. Serum PAF from HDCP patients at both the early pregnancy and diagnosis stages could effectively predict the occurrence and outcome of HDCP.

Olive oil and castor oil-based self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system of flurbiprofen can relieve peripheral pain and inflammation through reduction of oxidative stress and inflammatory biomarkers: a comprehensive formulation and pharmacological insights.

Flurbiprofen (FBP) is poorly water-soluble BCS class II drug with anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, used to treat arthritis and degenerative joint diseases. This study was aimed to develop SNEDDS loaded with FBP. Six SNEDDS using two oils olive oil (F1OLV, F2OLV, F3OLV) and castor oil (F4CAS, F5CAS, F6CAS) with three different Smix ratios consisting of Tween 20 and PEG 400 (1:1, 1:2, 2:1) were prepared and characterized. Compatibility between FBP and polymers was investigated using FTIR. SNEDDS were characterized for physicochemical attributes. Two optimized formulations were investigated at 10mg/kg dose given orally in Wistar rats for analgesic activity by hot plate and tail flick methods, and anti-inflammatory activity by carrageenan induced paw edema method. Anti-inflammatory activity was further explored by motor coordination and motility by Rota rod and cage activity tests. Following anesthesia blood samples were collected before dissection to measure inflammatory mediators and oxidative stress markers. Sciatica nerves and hind paws of rats were also removed for histopathological evaluation.FTIR studies revealed compatibility of FBP with other components. Droplet size of F1OLV, F2OLV, F3OLV was 128.5 ± 0.7 nm, 202.5 ± 1.3 nm, and 541.5 ± 1.7 nm, whereas it was 142.5 ± 1.1 nm, 215.4 ± 1.2 nm and 349.9 ± 1.8 nm for F4CAS, F5CAS, F6CAS. %EE of F1OLV, F2OLV, F3OLV was found 85 ± 4.89%-91 ± 4.67%, whereas the %EE F4CAS, F5CAS, F6CAS was 84 ± 4.15%-90 ± 4.21%. DSC curves of F1OLVand F4CASrevealed amorphous nature of the FBP. SEM showed spherical shape of globules. % of drug released in the pH medium 1.2 for plain FBP, F1OLVand F4CASwas 25%, 59% and 57%. % drug released in the pH 6.8 for plain FBP, F1OLVand F4CASwas 59%, 85% and 83%. Oral administration of FBP-loaded SNEDDS (F1OLV and F4CAS) significantly decreased paw diameter and enhanced motor coordination in rats when compared to the disease control group. This was linked to the ability of FBP to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, with histological studies indicating decreased tissue damage in SNEDDS treated groups, implying the possibility of tissue recovery. Administration of both formulations started to demonstrate analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects after one hour of administration. In addition to anti-inflammatory effect, both formulations improved motor coordination, motility, and reduced infiltration of inflammatory cells in the inflamed paws. The anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities were attributed to decreased serum levels of IL-6 and TNF-α, increased activity of SOD and reduced nitrite content in sciatic nerves. Histopathological evaluation revealed reduced vascularity, inflammation and synovial hyperplasia. The overall findings suggest that the FBP loaded SNEDDS can be used as carriers for improved delivery of FBP which can effectively be used to cure pain and inflammation.

Role of IL-6, TNF-α and VCAM-1 as predictors of renal impairment in patients with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis.

Multiple mechanisms may contribute to the occurrence of renal impairment (RI) in patients with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP). One such mechanism is systemic inflammatory response syndrome, which involves the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines (tumour necrosis factor [TNF]-α, interleukin [IL]-6 and vascular cell adhesion molecule [VCAM]-1). The goal of this research was to evaluate the role of IL-6, TNF-α and VCAM-1 as potential predictors of RI and mortality in cirrhotic patients with SBP. This study included 90 cirrhotic patients with SBP, divided into two equal groups: group A was patients without RI and group B was patients with RI. Based on mortality outcomes, the patients were further categorized into group 1 (recovery, n=70) and group 2 (death, n=20). TNF-α, IL-6 and VCAM-1 serum levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RI occurred in 50% (45/90) of the study population. Among the 90 patients, 10 (11.1%) had elevated IL-6 levels, 8 (8.9%) had elevated TNF-α levels and 6 (6.7%) had elevated VCAM-1 levels. There were no significant variations in cytokine levels between groups A and B. With an area under the curve of 0.5, the three cytokines showed comparable sensitivity and specificity as predictors of RI. The use of TNF-α, IL-6 and VCAM-1 as predictive markers for RI and mortality in SBP patients is not recommended, as these biomarkers demonstrated limited diagnostic value.

Chronic artificial light exposure in daytime and reversed light: Dark cycle inhibit anti-apoptotic cytokines and defect Bcl-2 in peripheral lymphoid tissues during acute systemic inflammatory response to lipopolysaccharide.

The disturbed light: dark (LD) cycle has been associated with critical complications, including obesity, diabetes and cancer. In the present study, we investigated the chronic effects of artificial light at daytime (AL) and light at night (RAL) after intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of saline and 0.5mg/kg lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in male Wistar rats. Liver and kidney parameters, fasting blood glucose (FBG), melatonin level, immunohistochemical examinations of B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) in spleen and mesenteric lymph and serum antiapoptotic cytokines [interleukin (IL-) 2, 7 and 1]. After 16weeks of a daily disturbed LD cycle, RAL increased body weight, upgraded FBG and altered liver and kidney functions with surprisingly increased daytime plasma melatonin. AL+LPS and RAL+LPS rats suffered significantly higher oxidative-nitrosative stress compared to NL+LPS. Oxidative-nitrosative stress was associated with multi-organ inflammation in hepatic, renal, pancreatic, splenic and mesenteric lymph node tissues due to LPS-induced endotoxemia. Anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 activity in peripheral lymphoid organs (spleen and mesenteric lymph node) was lowered due to AL and RAL regimens. At the same pattern, lowering of antiapoptotic serum levels of IL-2, IL-7 and IL-15 indicate alteration of cell cycle and the shifted ability of cells to undergo apoptosis due to abnormal light pollution. Here, the increased lymphocyte apoptosis in lymphoid tissues due to disturbed LD cycle defects the host defense, dysregulates the inflammatory immune response and dysregulates the immune tolerance during acute systemic inflammation due to LPS.

Downregulation of proinflammatory cytokines and dynamic expression of TGF-β1 molecules induced by anti-IL-17 mAb in murine schistosomiasis mansoni

Hepato-intestinal schistosomiasis is characterized by severe pathological changes at advanced chronic stages, including granulomatous lesions and liver fibrosis. The objective of our research was to assess the dynamic expression of profibrotic molecules, the transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1), and proinflammatory cytokines immunomodulation induced by interleukin 17 (IL-17) neutralization in murine Schistosomiasis mansoni. The study included 56 specific pathogen-free male C57BL/6 mice, divided into 3 main groups: GI uninfected normal controls, GII S. mansoni infected with 70±5 cercariae/non-treated, GIII S. mansoni infected and treated with anti-IL-17 monoclonal antibody (mAb), GIV S. mansoni infected and isotype-matched IgG2a mAb was given as a challenge. Mice were sacrificed at 6, 8, and 10 weeks after infection, then their liver enzymes and cytokines assessed, histopathological and immunohistochemical tested. The present study demonstrated a statistically significant elevation in serum levels of IL-17 (p&lt;0.01), TGF-β1 (p&lt;0.01), IL-1β (p≤0.001), IL-4 (p≤0.003), IL-6 (p≤0.05), and liver enzymes (ALT: p≤0.001; AST: p≤0.002). Additionally, granulomatous lesions and TGF-β1 expression were significantly increased (p&lt;0.001) in infected mice at 6, 8, and 10 weeks after infection. All showed significant reduction by neutralization with anti-IL-17 mAb. Finally, IL-17 exhibited potent profibrogenic activity, and anti-IL-17 mAb can be used to alleviate and counteract this impact in murine S. mansoni.

Daptomycin alleviates collagen-induced arthritis via suppressing inflammatory cytokines and NF-κB pathway.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease, and its pathogenic factors include bacterial infection and immune inflammation. Daptomycin (DAP) is a cyclic lipopeptide that has been approved to treat skin infections, bacteremia and right-sided endocarditis due to its effective antibacterial effects against most Gram-positive pathogenic bacteria. Herein, we focus on whether DAP exerts anti-inflammatory activity on RA to expand DAP drug indications. Our studies are first time to evaluate anti-inflammatory effect and reveal its molecular pharmacological mechanism of DAP on lipopolysaccharide-activated macrophage and collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) mice. In vitro cytological studies show that 10µg/mL DAP inhibits secretion of IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α to alleviate cell inflammation, and the phosphorylation level of p65 (p-p65) of RAW 264.7 cells is decreased under DAP exposure. Administration with 10mg/kg/2d DAP via intravenous injection on CIA mice significantly reduces arthritis symptom by inhibiting p-p65 level and decreasing serum level of IL-6, IL-1β and TNF-α. Moreover, our study is the first time to reveal new immunomodulatory effects of DAP on RA, which provides a pharmacological basis for new clinical applications of DAP for other immune-related diseases except to bacterial infections.

Applications of transcranial direct current stimulation over vagus nerve on dysphagia after stroke

Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) has been commonly employed for the functional rehabilitation of stroke patients. This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic effects of transcranial direct current stimulation on the vagus nerve (TDCSVN) in improving dysphagia in stroke patients. Patients experiencing dysphagia following a stroke were diagnosed with dysphagia using a water swallow test. Swallowing function was evaluated using the standard swallowing scale score and the functional dysphagia scale. Serum levels of interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-8 were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. TDCSVN treatment resulted in a significantly greater reduction in both the standard swallowing scale and functional dysphagia scale scores when compared to conventional treatment. Furthermore, TDCSVN treatment led to a notable increase in hemoglobin and albumin levels, suggesting a more substantial improvement in dysphagia compared to conventional methods. Additionally, TDCSVN treatment was more effective in decreasing serum levels of IL-1β and IL-8 in dysphagic patients following a stroke. TDCSVN treatment demonstrated a significant inhibitory effect on inflammatory cytokines, resulting in a more pronounced improvement in dysphagia among stroke patients.

Correlation between Serum Biomarkers and Disease Progression of Chronic Kidney Disease

Aims/Background The present study aimed to assess the capability of biomarkers, including inflammatory indicators, anaemic markers, lipid markers, and renal function indices, to differentiate between different stages of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Expected to provide a new strategy for monitoring the development of CKD and stratified treatment management, providing valuable insights for future biomarker studies to explore early detection of CKD. Methods The changes in inflammatory markers (interferon gamma [IFN-γ], interleukin [IL]-17A, IL-10, IL-6, IL-4, IL-2, IL-1 and white blood cells [WBC]), lipid markers (high-density lipoprotein cholesterol [HDL-c], low-density lipoprotein cholesterol [LDL-c], and triglyceride [TG]), indicators of kidney injury (serum creatinine [Scr] and blood urea nitrogen [BUN]) in 451 patients with different stages of CKD were examined. Furthermore, these markers were compared between 299 anemic patients and 53 non-anemic patients. Univariate and multivariate regression analyses were employed to analyze the association between these biomarkers and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). To identify risk factors associated with the development of CKD, we utilized principal component analysis to evaluate their utility as potential diagnostic and prognostic markers for the disease. Results Significant differences were found in IL-6, BUN, and hemoglobin (Hb) levels across CKD stages 2 to 5. Anaemic individuals had elevated levels of IL-6, Scr, and BUN compared to non-anaemic individuals. In addition, the multivariate linear regression analysis revealed that IL-1 (p = 0.022), IL-6 (p = 0.022), Hb (p &lt; 0.001), and BUN (p &lt; 0.001) were statistically significant predictors of eGFR. Furthermore, it was discovered that the blood levels of IL-6 (p = 0.012), BUN (p &lt; 0.001), and Hb (p &lt; 0.001) were risk factors associated with the stages of CKD. Conclusion Serum levels of IL-6, BUN and Hb have been associated with the progression of CKD. Using a combination of serum biomarkers is a potential strategy for tracking the development of CKD, facilitating stratified management and early intervention.

Association of Toxoplasmosis with Serum TGF-β, IL-17, and IL-6 Levels in Individuals with Diabetes

Cytokines play an essential role in regulating the interaction of immune cells in diabetes and infections such as toxoplasmosis. The purpose of this study was to examine the serum levels of interleukin (IL)-6, IL-17, and transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) in patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus with toxoplasmosis, and to explore their inter-relationship. Forty patients with diabetes mellitus, including 20 with type 1 and 20 with type 2, as well as 20 healthy subjects, voluntarily participated in the study. Each subject provided 5 mL of peripheral blood for enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus who also had toxoplasmosis showed a significant increase in TGF-β levels and a decrease in IL-6 levels. In contrast, patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus displayed a slight increase in IL-6 and IL-17 levels compared to both the patients with type 2 diabetes and the healthy control group. Our findings show an increase in TGF-β and a decrease in IL-6, which may suggest a reduction in inflammation and beta cell destruction in individuals with type 2 diabetes and toxoplasmosis. The elevated serum levels of IL-6 and IL-17 in individuals with type 1 diabetes further support the exacerbation of inflammation.

Enhanced safety and efficacy profile of CD40 antibody upon encapsulation in pHe-triggered membrane-adhesive nanoliposomes.

To develop pH (pHe)-triggered membrane adhesive nanoliposome (pHTANL) of CD40a to enhance anti-tumor activity in pancreatic cancer while reducing systemic toxicity. A small library of nanoliposomes (NL) with various lipid compositions were synthesized to prepare pH (pHe)-triggered membrane adhesive nanoliposome (pHTANL). Physical and functional characterization of pHTANL-CD40a was performed via dynamic light scattering (DLS), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), confocal microscopy, and flow cytometry. In vivo studies were performed using PDAC (Panc02) transplanted mice. Tumor tissue was analyzed by flow cytometry, and plasma cytokines and liver enzymes were analyzed by ELISA. pHTANL-CD40a reduced tumor growth, enhanced tumor immune infiltration/activation, and enhanced survival compared to vehicle and free-CD40a. Importantly, pHTANL-CD40a treatment resulted in significantly lower systemic toxicity as indicated by unchanged body weight, minimal organ deformity, and reduced serum levels of liver enzyme alanine transaminase (ALT) and inflammatory cytokine IL-6. pHTANL-CD40a is more effective than free CD40a in anti-tumor activity, especially in altering the TME immune landscape for a potential therapeutic benefit in combination with immunotherapy.

The Effectiveness of β-glucan in the Treatment of Caprine Mastitis Induced by Candida albicans

This study evaluated the efficacy of β-glucan, extracted from Candida albicans isolated from mastitic goat milk using an alkaline-acidic method, in treating C. albicans-induced mastitis. Twenty lactating goats (2–4 years old, 25–30 kg) were randomly divided into five groups (Group I–Group V), with each group consisting of four goats. Sixteen goats were intramammarily inoculated with 1.2 × 10⁷ yeast/2 mL of virulent C. albicans. The groups were as follows: Group I (negative control, uninfected), Group II (positive control, infected but untreated), Group III (treated with Nystatin, 200,000 units/half udder/day intramammary for 7 days), Group IV (treated with β-glucan, 5 mg/mL/half udder, administered intramammary every 48 h for three doses), and Group V (treated with a combination of β-glucan and Nystatin; β-glucan was administered as in Group IV, followed 2 h later by Nystatin, 200,000 units/half udder/day for 7 days). Clinical signs, milk quality (California Mastitis Test and fungal cultures), and serum levels of IL-6 and IFN-γ were assessed on days 0, 5, 10, 20, 30, and 40 post-inoculation. The results showed that the positive control group exhibited persistent mastitis symptoms throughout the study. Goats treated with β-glucan alone (Group IV) demonstrated significant symptom reduction and fungal elimination by day 15. The combination therapy group (Group V) achieved similar improvements by day 25. Serum IL-6 and IFN-γ levels were significantly elevated in the positive control group, while the β-glucan-treated group showed a substantial reduction in these inflammatory markers, indicating its potential as a standalone antifungal therapy. The Nystatin group (Group III) and the combination group (Group V) also exhibited reduced cytokine levels, although these were higher than those observed in the β-glucan and negative control groups. This study confirms the potential of β-glucan as an effective treatment for C. albicans-induced mastitis in goats. Its ability to lower inflammatory cytokine levels and eliminate fungal infections highlights its promise as a therapeutic option, particularly in combination with Nystatin, for managing fungal mastitis‎‎‎.

The Immunological Role of Interleukin-10 in Chronic Renal Disease Patients of Thi-Qar Province

Chronic renal disease (CRD) is a basic worldwide health issue; the interleukin-10 is an anti-inflammatory mediator that has a role in normal kidney function and in the progression of chronic renal failure. This study aims to measure the serum level of anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-10), and evaluate its role in the progression of chronic kidney disease (CRD). The study comprised 66 patients divided into group 1 (22 subjects with CKD) and 2 (22 CRD patients with Diabetic mellitus name as DM-CRD), and group 3 (22 patients with Diabetic mellitus DM only without CRD). In addition to 22 consider as healthy people as control. The serum levels of IL-10 were determined by using ELISA assay. The results demonstrated a significant increase in the serum means levels of IL-10 in all patient groups (CKD, DM-CKD, DM) in comparison with healthy control, while there was nonsignificant difference in its mean serum levels among all patient groups. It was concluded that male and aging are predisposing factors to chronic renal disease, and elevated levels of IL-10 in patients with CKD and diabetes reflect the potential role of IL-10 in the progression of diabetic nephropathy patients to chronic renal disease

Butterfly Pea and Roselle Combination Extracts Reduce V-CAM, ICAM, and IL-6 Levels in High Fat Atherogenic Diet Rats

BACKGROUND: Atherosclerosis, driven by inflammation and oxidative stress, increases the risk of coronary heart disease (CHD). Flavonoids in butterfly pea and roselle are known for their potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. While their individual effects on cardiovascular health have been studied, no studies have explored the combined impact on atherosclerosis biomarkers, including vascular cell adhesion molecules (VCAM)-1, intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)-1, and interleukin (IL)-6. Therefore, this study was performed to evaluate the synergistic effects of butterfly pea and roselle combination extracts (BPRCE) on these biomarkers.METHODS: A study with a post-test control group design using 36 male white rats was performed. The rats were randomly assigned to 6 groups; 1 group was fed with standard feed, while 5 groups were fed with a high-fat atherogenic diet (HFAD) to create atherosclerosis rat models. The HFAD rats were given either no treatment, sodium carboxymethylcellulose (Na-CMC), 300, 400, or 500 mg/kgBW BPRCE. Serum levels of VCAM-1, ICAM-1, and IL-6 of rats were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) methods.RESULTS: Increasing doses of BPRCE resulted in a significant reduction in VCAM-1, ICAM-1, and IL-6 compared to the other groups. The group with the highest dose, 500 mg/kgBW BPRCE, showed the greatest reduction of VCAM-1 level (32.73±3.57 pg/mL), ICAM-1 level (5.68±1.17 ng/mL), and IL-6 levels (21.49±4.62 pg/mL).CONCLUSION: Administration of BPRCE in atherosclerosis rats model reduces VCAM-1, ICAM-1, and IL-6 in a dose-dependent manner. This study showed that using BPRCE as a traditional remedy for preventing and treating CHD at an optimal dose of 500 mg/kgBW might be a potential future application in reducing atherosclerosis biomarkers.KEYWORDS: VCAM-1, ICAM-1, IL-6, butterfly pea, rosella, atherosclerosis

Adipokines and Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase as Biomarkers of Metabolic Syndrome Risk in Mexican School-Aged Children.

Background/Objectives: The prevalence of metabolic syndrome in children has been increasing, raising concerns about early detection and clinical management. Adipokines, which are secreted by adipose tissue, play a critical role in metabolic regulation and inflammation, while gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), as a liver enzyme, is linked to oxidative stress and metabolic disorders. The objective was to examine the association of circulating adipokines and GGT with metabolic syndrome risk in school-aged children from Northeast Mexico. Methods: A total of 140 children from 6 to 12 years of age in the state of Nuevo León, Mexico, participated in this study. Obesity was classified according to the BMI z-score by the World Health Organization (WHO, 2007), and metabolic syndrome was classified according to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF, 2007). Serum levels of leptin, adiponectin, TNF-α, IL-6, and GGT were measured. Statistical analysis was performed using the Student's t-test, simple linear regression analysis, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. Results: Among the 140 participants, 60 children (43%) were classified as obese, and of those children with obesity, 55% were diagnosed with metabolic syndrome. Leptin was significantly associated with waist circumference (WC), systolic blood pressure (SBP), serum glucose, triglycerides, and HDL cholesterol (HDL-c). Adiponectin also showed significant associations with WC, SBP, serum triglycerides, and HDL-c. GGT was significantly correlated with WC and HDL-c, while IL-6 and TNF-α did not indicate significance. Associations were observed among leptin, adiponectin, and GGT, highlighting their combined role as potential markers for metabolic syndrome in children. The ROC curve analysis and Youden's index provided cut-off points for these biomarkers: leptin: 8.3665 ng/mL, adiponectin: 9.87 µg/mL, GGT: 17.8 U/L, IL-6 2.77 pg/mL, and TNF-α: 6.68 pg/mL; Conclusions: These findings emphasize the utility of leptin, adiponectin, and GGT as early biomarkers for identifying children with obesity who are at risk of developing metabolic syndrome.