Soluble CD14 Research Articles

Intestinal barrier disruption with Plasmodium falciparum infection in pregnancy and risk of preterm birth: a cohort study

Malaria in early pregnancy is a risk factor for preterm birth and is associated with sustained inflammation and dysregulated angiogenesis across gestation. This study investigated whether malaria is associated with increased gut leak and whether this contributes to systemic inflammation, altered angiogenesis, and preterm birth. We quantified plasma concentrations of gut leak markers, soluble CD14 (sCD14) and lipopolysaccharide binding protein (LBP) from 1339 HIV-negative pregnant Malawians at <24 weeks gestational age. We assessed the relationship of sCD14 and LBP concentrations with markers of inflammation, angiogenesis, and L-arginine bioavailability and compared them between participants with and without malaria, and with and without preterm birth. Plasma concentrations of sCD14 and LBP were significantly higher in participants with malaria and were associated with parasite burden (p <0.0001, both analyses and analytes). The odds ratio for preterm birth associated with one log sCD14 was 2.67 (1.33 to 5.35, p=0.006) and 1.63 (1.07-2.47, p=0.023) for LBP. Both gut leak analytes were positively associated with increases in proinflammatory cytokines CRP, sTNFR2, IL18-BP, CHI3L1 and Angptl3 (p <0.05, all analytes) and sCD14 was significantly associated with angiogenic proteins Angpt-2, sENG and the sFLT:PlGF ratio (p <0.05, all analytes). sCD14 was negatively associated with L-arginine bioavailability (p <0.001). Malaria in early pregnancy is associated with intestinal barrier dysfunction, which is linked to an increased risk of preterm birth. Open Philanthropy, Canadian Institutes of Health Research, Canada Research Chair program, European and Developing Countries Clinical Trials Partnership, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

The Role of Inflammatory Biomarkers of Crevicular Fluid Involved in Modulating of Immune Protection Mechanisms in Chronic Periodontitis

INTRODUCTION: Chronic periodontal inflammation is provoked by persistence of subgingival bacterial flora and is mediated through the production of proinflammatory cytokines that induce the innate immune reactions.&#x0D; АIM: To establish the interrelation of secretion of interleukin 1 and immune component of soluble CD14 co-receptor with the main periodontopathogenic microorganisms in patients with chronic generalized periodontitis.&#x0D; MATERIALS AND METHODS: A clinical and laboratory examination of patients with chronic generalized periodontitis (n = 100) and individuals with the intact parodontium (n = 63) was conducted. Molecular genetic studies (isolation of periodontal pathogens by polymerase chain reaction in real time), immune enzyme assay (isolation of interleukin 1 and soluble CD14 co-receptor) and statistical analysis of the data obtained were performed.&#x0D; RESULTS: The frequency of isolation of periodontopathogenic bacteria in patients with the diagnosis of chronic periodontitis was 96.4% (T. forsythia 81%, р 0.001; P. gingivalis 69%, р 0.001; Tr. denticola 63%, р = 0.054). In 25% of cases, C. Albicans (р 0.001), in 37% Pr. intermedia (р 0.001) and in 30% A. actinomycetemcomitans (р 0.001) were isolated. The average concentrations of soluble CD14 co-receptor were 2.13 [1.89; 2.76] pg/ml in the control group and 20.3 [17.3; 22.5] ng/ml in the group of patients with chronic periodontitis (р 0.001). Concentrations of interleukin 1 were 3.187 [2.356; 4.633] pg/ml in the control group and 33.68 [17.255; 56.915] pg/ml in the group of patients with chronic periodontitis (р 0.001).&#x0D; CONCLUSION: Inflammation of periodontal tissues is supported by the factors of aggression and toxins not only of known periodontal pathogens, but also by their associations, which leads to enhancement of virulence factors and increase in secretion of interleukin 1 and soluble CD14 co-receptor, which, in turn, causes destruction of alveolar bone.

Abnormal immune function of B lymphocyte in peripheral blood of Parkinson's disease

BackgroundParkinson's disease (PD) is associated with peripheral inflammation and abnormal peripheral blood lymphocyte immune responses. Peripheral blood B-lymphocyte subset distributions and whether they are associated with PD are unclear. MethodsSixty-one PD patients and sixty-one one-to-one paired healthy controls (HCs) were enrolled. We used flow cytometry to perform immunophenotyping of peripheral B-lymphocyte, in vitro stimulation and measured serum cytokine. The relationship between variables and PD were assessed. ResultsThe percentage of naive B cells in blood of PD patients was decreased, whereas the percentages of regulatory B cells (Bregs), plasma blast cells (PBCs), and double-negative (DN) B cells were increased. The absolute counts of B-lymphocyte and naive B cells in blood of PD patients were decreased. Regression analysis revealed that alterations in the absolute counts of B-lymphocyte and the percentage of Bregs and DN B cells were associated with PD. After stimulation, the percentages of Bregs, PBCs, and switched memory (SwM) B cells increased in PD patients. Additionally, increases in GM-CSF-producing B-cell, IFN-γ-producing B-cell, and TNF-α-producing B-cell percentages were noted in PD. Serum levels of a proliferation-inducing ligand (APRIL), B-cell activating factor (BAFF) and soluble CD40 ligand (sCD40L) were elevated in PD and correlated negatively with the UPDRS III score. ConclusionsAbnormal B-lymphocyte immune responses in peripheral blood may contribute to PD development. Alterations in the absolute counts of B-lymphocyte and the percentage of Bregs and DN B cells are associated with PD. Furthermore, APRIL, BAFF, and sCD40L could be potential targets for intervention in PD.

Relationship among serum TIMP-1, sCD40L and peripheral neuropathy in type 2 diabetes

Purpose: To determine the correlation of serum TIMP-1 and sCD40L with peripheral neuropathy in type 2 diabetes (T2DM), and potential targets for pharmacological intervention.Methods: The study enrolled 97 subjects with T2DM. The 41 subjects with simple diabetes were classified as T2DM group, while 56 subjects with diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) were included in the DPN group. A control group consisting of 50 healthy volunteers who conducted health checks during a similar time-period was also included. Clinical data and parameters were compared among the three groups, and TIMP-1 and sCD40L levels were determined. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify factors affecting DPN. The diagnostic value of TIMP-1 and sCD40L in DPN was also determined.Results: Body mass index (BMI) varied among the three groups (p &lt; 0.05), but age or gender were not significantly different (p &lt; 0.05). Duration of diabetes was longer in DPN group than in T2DM group (p &lt; 0.05). The study also revealed statistically significant differences in fasting blood glucose (FBS), postprandial blood glucose, and glycosylated hemoglobin among the three groups. Tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1) and soluble CD40 ligand (sCD40L) were important factors that affected the occurrence of diabetic peripheral neuropathy (p &lt; 0.05).Conclusion: TIMP-1 and sCD40L levels reflect neurovascular injury in patients with diabetes, with potential as targets for pharmacological intervention for peripheral neuropathy. These findings espouse crucial clinical implications for early identification and treatment in type 2 diabetes.

Anakinra and hepatotoxicity in pediatric rheumatology: a case series

BackgroundAnakinra is a recombinant interleukin-1 (IL-1) receptor antagonist used in systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (sJIA), refractory Kawasaki disease (KD) and cryopyrin-associated autoinflammatory syndrome (CAPS). Anakinra associated hepatotoxicity, while rare, has been described in several cases in daily practice. ​In this case series the authors describe three pediatric patients with this side effect in the setting of severe macrophage activation syndrome (MAS) in KD and sJIA.Case presentationThe first patient was a 12-year-old boy who presented with fever, maculo-papular exanthema and polyarthralgia. Tonsillitis, distal limb induration and tender cervical lymph nodes were observed. Erythrocyte-sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein (CRP), ferritin (11,975 ng/mL), D-dimers (5,98 mg/L FEU) and soluble CD25 (3645 pg/mL) levels were elevated. Exclusion of sepsis / toxic shock syndrome warranted introduction of IV methylprednisolone and immunoglobulin (IG IV), with partial response. A MAS secondary to KD was assumed, and anakinra 2 mg/kg/day was introduced. Twenty days later he developed new-onset nausea and severe cyto-cholestasis, normalizing after 2 months of drug discontinuation. Posterior onset of polyarthritis and evanescent lead to a final diagnosis of sJIA. The second patient was a 2-year-old boy with a 10-day history of fevers, generalized rash, hepatosplenomegaly and strawberry tongue. Leucocytosis with neutrophilia and elevated CRP were observed. Initial treatment with IVIG in the setting of incomplete KD was ineffective. Mild anaemia, leukopenia and very high serum ferritin (maximum 26,128 ng/mL) ensued. Presumptive sJIA associated MAS was treated with IV methylprednisolone and anakinra 2 mg/kg/day, with prompt response. Four weeks later transaminitis was detected, and temporary anakinra suspension led to normalisation of laboratorial values. The third case related to a 4-year-old boy presenting with fever, maculopapular rash and cervical lymphadenopathy. CRP and ESR were elevated, and KD was diagnosed. IVIG and methylprednisolone were initiated with clinical worsening, warranting for anakinra introduction at 2 mg/kg/day. After three weeks, liver enzymes progressively elevated, resolving on 2 weeks of anakinra discontinuation.ConclusionsTo the best of our knowledge, this is the first case series describing anakinra associated hepatotoxicity in pediatric patients with rheumatic diseases other than sJIA, bringing additional insight to therapeutic monitoring in patients undergoing this treatment.

The novel high-affinity humanized antibody IMM40H targets CD70, eliminates tumors via Fc-mediated effector functions, and interrupts CD70/CD27 signaling.

A significant level of CD70 can be detected in various types of tumor tissues and CD27 is expressed on Treg cells, but CD70 expression is low in normal tissues. The interaction between CD70 and CD27 can stimulate the proliferation and survival of cancer cells and increase the level of soluble CD27, which is associated with poor prognosis in patients with lymphoma and certain solid tumors. Thus, it is a promising therapeutic target for the treatment of many major CD70+ cancer indications, including CD70+ lymphoma, RCC, NSCLC, HNSCC and OC. IMM40H was obtained through hybridoma screening and antibody humanization techniques. IMM40H was evaluated for its binding, blocking, Fc-dependent effector functions and antitumor activity characteristics in various in vitro and in vivo systems. The safety and tolerability profile of IMM40H were evaluated through single and repeated administration in cynomolgus monkeys. In vitro cell-based assays demonstrated that IMM40H had considerably stronger CD70-binding affinity than competitor anti-CD70 antibodies, including cusatuzumab, which enabled it to block the interaction of between CD70 and CD27 more effectively. IMM40H also exhibited potent Fc-dependent effector functions (ADCC/CDC/ADCP), and could make a strong immune attack on tumor cells and enhance therapeutic efficacy. Preclinical findings showed that IMM40H had potent antitumor activity in multiple myeloma U266B1 xenograft model, and could eradicate subcutaneously established tumors at a low dose of 0.3 mg/kg. IMM40H (0.3 mg/kg) showed therapeutic effects faster than cusatuzumab (1 mg/kg). A strong synergistic effect between IMM01 (SIRPα-Fc fusion protein) and IMM40H was recorded in Burkitt's lymphoma Raji and renal carcinoma cell A498 tumor models. In cynomolgus monkeys, the highest non-severely toxic dose (HNSTD) for repeat-dose toxicity was up to 30 mg/kg, while the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) for single-dose toxicity was up to 100 mg/kg, confirming that IMM40H had a good safety and tolerability profile. IMM40H is a high-affinity humanized IgG1 specifically targeting the CD70 monoclonal antibody with enhanced Fc-dependent activities. IMM40H has a dual mechanism of action: inducing cytotoxicity against CD70+ tumor cells via various effector functions (ADCC, ADCP and CDC) and obstructs the proliferation and activation of Tregs by inhibiting CD70/CD27 signaling.

Soluble CD4 and low molecular weight CD4-mimetic compounds sensitize cells to be killed by anti-HIV cytotoxic immunoconjugates.

HIV infection can be effectively treated to prevent the development of AIDS, but it cannot be cured. We have attached poisons to anti-HIV antibodies to kill the infected cells that persist even after years of effective antiviral therapy. Here we show that the killing of infected cells can be markedly enhanced by the addition of soluble forms of the HIV receptor CD4 or by mimics of CD4.

Cytokine dysregulation despite immunoglobulin replacement therapy in common variable immunodeficiency (CVID).

Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) is the most prevalent symptomatic primary immunodeficiency. CVID is a heterogeneous disorder with a presumed multifactorial etiology. Intravenous or subcutaneous immunoglobulin replacement therapy (IgRT) can prevent severe infections but not underlying immune dysregulation. In this study, we evaluated the serum concentrations of proinflammatory (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6) and immunoregulatory cytokines (IL-10), as well as lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and soluble CD14 (sCD14) in CVID individuals with infectious only (INF-CVID), and those with additional systemic autoimmune and inflammatory disorders (NIC-CVID), and healthy donors (HD). Our results showed increased serum concentrations of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-10 in both INF-CVID and NIC-CVID subjects compared to HD. However, elevations of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-10 were significantly more marked in NIC-CVID than INF-CVID. Additionally, LPS concentrations were increased only in NIC-CVID but not in INF-CVID compared to HD. Circulating levels of sCD14 were significantly increased in NIC-CVID compared to both INF-CVID and HD. These findings indicate persistent cytokine dysregulation despite IgRT in individuals with CVID. Moreover, the circulating cytokine profile reveals the heterogeneity of immune dysregulation in different subgroups of CVID subjects.

A diagnostic electrochemical aptasensor development for sCD80 protein detection in human serum

Elevating soluble CD80 (sCD80) in human serum is a natural response to autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The level of sCD80 is associated with RA development and prognosis; therefore, it is potentially used as a biomarker. sCD80 is commonly measured in human serum using immunoassays (e.g., ELISA) with multiple drawbacks, mainly cross-reactivity. Aptamer-based biosensors (aptasensors) development for quantifying and detecting different biological molecules demonstrates applicability in next-generation medicine and biomarker detection. Herein, we selected a specific aptamer for sCD80 by conventional in-vitro selection process (SELEX) with the high-affinity aptamer (Kd = 47.69 nM). A sensitive aptasensor, for the first time, was developed on a screen-printed gold electrode (AuSPE) platform compatible with easy-to-use label-free electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The immobilization of the aptamer on the gold surface and the presence of sCD80 in a complex with the aptamer were characterized by photo-induced force microscopy, which revealed the uniform assembly of the aptamer monolayer and the distribution of sCD80 on the electrode surface. The developed aptasensor showed a linear performance (0.025–10.0 nM of protein) with a detection limit of 8.0 pM. Furthermore, the aptasensor was tested in a biological matrix, where a linear signal was observed for the increased amount of spiked sCD80 (R2 = 0.9887). The recovery of the spiked amounts ranged from 105 to 125% with coefficient of variation (CV%) <7%, which supported the applicability of this sensor in detecting sCD80 for diagnosis.

Hemorrhagic transformation in patients with large-artery atherosclerotic stroke is associated with the gut microbiota and lipopolysaccharide.

Abstract JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202407000-00032/figure1/v/2023-11-20T171125Z/r/image-tiff Hemorrhagic transformation is a major complication of large-artery atherosclerotic stroke (a major ischemic stroke subtype) that worsens outcomes and increases mortality. Disruption of the gut microbiota is an important feature of stroke, and some specific bacteria and bacterial metabolites may contribute to hemorrhagic transformation pathogenesis. We aimed to investigate the relationship between the gut microbiota and hemorrhagic transformation in large-artery atherosclerotic stroke. An observational retrospective study was conducted. From May 2020 to September 2021, blood and fecal samples were obtained upon admission from 32 patients with first-ever acute ischemic stroke and not undergoing intravenous thrombolysis or endovascular thrombectomy, as well as 16 healthy controls. Patients with stroke who developed hemorrhagic transformation (n = 15) were compared to those who did not develop hemorrhagic transformation (n = 17) and with healthy controls. The gut microbiota was assessed through 16S ribosomal ribonucleic acid sequencing. We also examined key components of the lipopolysaccharide pathway: lipopolysaccharide, lipopolysaccharide-binding protein, and soluble CD14. We observed that bacterial diversity was decreased in both the hemorrhagic transformation and non-hemorrhagic transformation group compared with the healthy controls. The patients with ischemic stroke who developed hemorrhagic transformation exhibited altered gut microbiota composition, in particular an increase in the relative abundance and diversity of members belonging to the Enterobacteriaceae family. Plasma lipopolysaccharide and lipopolysaccharide-binding protein levels were higher in the hemorrhagic transformation group compared with the non-hemorrhagic transformation group. lipopolysaccharide, lipopolysaccharide-binding protein, and soluble CD14 concentrations were associated with increased abundance of Enterobacteriaceae. Next, the role of the gut microbiota in hemorrhagic transformation was evaluated using an experimental stroke rat model. In this model, transplantation of the gut microbiota from hemorrhagic transformation rats into the recipient rats triggered higher plasma levels of lipopolysaccharide, lipopolysaccharide-binding protein, and soluble CD14. Taken together, our findings demonstrate a noticeable change in the gut microbiota and lipopolysaccharide-related inflammatory response in stroke patients with hemorrhagic transformation. This suggests that maintaining a balanced gut microbiota may be an important factor in preventing hemorrhagic transformation after stroke.

Insights into the associations between the gut microbiome, its metabolites and heart failure.

Heart failure (HF) is the end stage of most cardiovascular diseases and remains a significant health problem globally. We aimed to assess whether patients with left ventricular ejection fraction ≤45% had alterations in both the gut microbiome profile and production of associated metabolites when compared to a healthy cohort. We also examined the associated inflammatory, metabolomic, and lipidomic profiles of HF patients. This single centre, observational study, recruited 73 HF patients and 59 healthy volunteers. Blood and stool samples were collected at baseline and 6-month follow-up, along with anthropometric and clinical data. Compared to healthy controls, HF patients had reduced gut bacterial alpha diversity at follow-up (p =0.004) but not at baseline. The stool microbiota of HF patients was characterized by a depletion of operational taxonomic units representing commensal Clostridia at both baseline and follow-up. HF patients also had significantly elevated baseline plasma acetate (p =0.007), plasma TMAO (p =0.003), serum sCD14 (p =0.005) and sCD163 (p =0.004) levels compared to healthy controls. Furthermore, HF patients had a distinct metabolomic and lipidomic profile at baseline when compared to healthy controls. Differences in the composition of the gut microbiome and the levels of associated metabolites were observed in patients with HF when compared to a healthy cohort. This was also associated with an altered metabolomic and lipidomic profile. Our study identifies microorganisms and metabolites that could represent new therapeutic targets and diagnostic tools in the pathogenesis of HF.

Prospects and Pitfalls of Plasma Complement C4 in Schizophrenia: Building a Better Biomarker

Complex brain disorders like schizophrenia may have multifactorial origins related to mis-timed heritable and environmental factors interacting during neurodevelopment. Infections, inflammation, and autoimmune diseases are over-represented in schizophrenia leading to immune system-centered hypotheses. Complement component C4 is genetically and neurobiologically associated with schizophrenia, and its dual activity peripherally and in the brain makes it an exceptional target for biomarker development. Studies to evaluate the biomarker potential of plasma or serum C4 in schizophrenia do so to understand how peripheral C4 might reflect central nervous system-derived neuroinflammation, synapse pruning, and other mechanisms. This effort, however, has produced mostly conflicting results, with peripheral C4 sometimes elevated, reduced, or unchanged between comparison groups. We undertook a pilot biomarker development study to systematically identify sociodemographic, genetic, and immune-related variables (autoimmune, infection-related, gastrointestinal, inflammatory), which may be associated with plasma C4 levels in schizophrenia (SCH; n = 335) and/or in nonpsychiatric comparison subjects (NCs; n = 233). As with previously inconclusive studies, we detected no differences in plasma C4 levels between SCH and NCs. In contrast, levels of general inflammation, C-reactive protein (CRP), were significantly elevated in SCH compared to NCs (ANOVA, F = 20.74, p < 0.0001), suggestive that plasma C4 and CRP may reflect different sources or causes of inflammation. In multivariate regressions of C4 gene copy number variants, plasma C4 levels were correlated only for C4A (not C4B, C4L, C4S) and only in NCs (R Coeff = 0.39, CI = 0.01–0.77, R² = 0.18, p < 0.01; not SCH). Other variables associated with plasma C4 levels only in NCs included sex, double-stranded DNA IgG, tissue-transglutaminase (TTG) IgG, and cytomegalovirus IgG. Toxoplasma gondii IgG was the only variable significantly correlated with plasma C4 in SCH but not in NCs. Many variables were associated with plasma C4 in both groups (body mass index, race, CRP, N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) NR2 subunit IgG, TTG IgA, lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP), and soluble CD14 (sCD14). While the direction of most C4 associations was positive, autoimmune markers tended to be inverse, and associated with reduced plasma C4 levels. When NMDAR-NR2 autoantibody-positive individuals were removed, plasma C4 was elevated in SCH versus NCs (ANOVA, F = 5.16, p < 0.02). Our study was exploratory and confirmation of the many variables associated with peripheral C4 requires replication. Our preliminary results point toward autoimmune factors and exposure to the pathogen, T. gondii, as possibly significant contributors to variability of total C4 protein levels in plasma of individuals with schizophrenia.

Serum cytokine profiles in myasthenia gravis with anti-muscle-specific kinase antibodies

This study measured the serum levels of of 15 cytokines in 15 patients with anti-muscle-specific kinase antibody-positive MG (MuSK-MG) using a multiplex suspension array system. Fifteen patients with non-inflammatory neurological diseases served as controls. Compared with controls, patients with MuSK-MG showed higher levels of Th1- (IFN-γ), Th2- (IL-25, IL-31, and IL-33), Th17- (IL-22), Treg-related cytokines (IL-10), and soluble CD40 ligand (sCD40L). Higher serum Th2-related cytokines (IL-25 and IL-31) levels were correlated with less MG Foundation of America (MGFA) class. These suggest that Th2-related cytokines have protective effects, whereas sCD40L and others may facilitate the disease.

Macrophage-associated markers of metaflammation are linked to metabolic dysfunction in pediatric obesity

BackgpoundMetabolically driven chronic low-grade adipose tissue inflammation, so-called metaflammation, is a central feature in obesity. This inflammatory tone is largely driven by adipose tissue macrophages (ATM), which express pro- and anti-inflammatory markers and cytokines such as, e.g., IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1RA), CD163 and osteopontin (OPN). Metaflammation ultimately leads to the development of cardiometabolic diseases. This study aimed to evaluate the association between selected adipose tissue macrophage-associated markers and metabolic comorbidities in pediatric obesity. MethodsFrom a pediatric cohort with obesity (n = 108), clinically thoroughly characterized including diverse routine blood parameters, oral glucose tolerance test and liver MRI, plasma IL-1RA, soluble (s)CD163 and OPN were measured by ELISA. ResultsWe observed significantly higher IL-1RA, sCD163, and OPN levels in the plasma of children with metabolic-dysfunction associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) and metabolic syndrome. Moreover, IL-1RA and sCD163 correlated with hepatic disease and apoptosis markers alanine aminotransferase and CK-18. IL-1RA concentrations additionally correlated with insulin resistance, while children with disturbed glucose metabolism had significantly higher levels of sCD163. ConclusionMAFLD and other metabolic disorders in pediatric patients with obesity are associated with an elevation of adipose tissue macrophage-related inflammation markers.

Myeloid cell iron uptake pathways and paramagnetic rim formation in multiple sclerosis

In multiple sclerosis (MS), sustained inflammatory activity can be visualized by iron-sensitive magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at the edges of chronic lesions. These paramagnetic rim lesions (PRLs) are associated with clinical worsening, although the cell type-specific and molecular pathways of iron uptake and metabolism are not well known. We studied two postmortem cohorts: an exploratory formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue cohort of 18 controls and 24 MS cases and a confirmatory snap-frozen cohort of 6 controls and 14 MS cases. Besides myelin and non-heme iron imaging, the haptoglobin-hemoglobin scavenger receptor CD163, the iron-metabolizing markers HMOX1 and HAMP as well as immune-related markers P2RY12, CD68, C1QA and IL10 were visualized in myeloid cell (MC) subtypes at RNA and protein levels across different MS lesion areas. In addition, we studied PRLs in vivo in a cohort of 98 people with MS (pwMS) via iron-sensitive 3 T MRI and haptoglobin genotyping by PCR. CSF samples were available from 38 pwMS for soluble CD163 (sCD163) protein level measurements by ELISA. In postmortem tissues, we observed that iron uptake was linked to rim-associated C1QA-expressing MC subtypes, characterized by upregulation of CD163, HMOX1, HAMP and, conversely, downregulation of P2RY12. We found that pwMS with ge 4 PRLs had higher sCD163 levels in the CSF than pwMS with le 3 PRLs with sCD163 correlating with the number of PRLs. The number of PRLs was associated with clinical worsening but not with age, sex or haptoglobin genotype of pwMS. However, pwMS with Hp2-1/Hp2-2 haplotypes had higher clinical disability scores than pwMS with Hp1-1. In summary, we observed upregulation of the CD163-HMOX1-HAMP axis in MC subtypes at chronic active lesion rims, suggesting haptoglobin-bound hemoglobin but not transferrin-bound iron as a critical source for MC-associated iron uptake in MS. The correlation of CSF-associated sCD163 with PRL counts in MS highlights the relevance of CD163-mediated iron uptake via haptoglobin-bound hemoglobin. Also, while Hp haplotypes had no noticeable influence on PRL counts, pwMS carriers of a Hp2 allele might have a higher risk to experience clinical worsening.

Soluble CD163 predicts outcome in both chemoimmunotherapy and targeted therapy-treated mantle cell lymphoma.

The outcome for patients with mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) has drastically improved with new treatments directed toward the tumor immune microenvironment, where macrophages play an important role. In MCL, the presence of M2 macrophages defined by CD163 expression in diagnostic biopsies has been associated with a worse prognosis. An alternative way to assess the abundance of M2 macrophages is by measuring the level of soluble CD163 in serum (sCD163). We aimed to investigate the prognostic value of sCD163 in 131 patients with MCL. We found that high sCD163 at diagnosis was associated with shorter progression-free survival (PFS) and shorter overall survival (OS) in 81 patients who were newly diagnosed and subsequently treated with chemoimmunotherapy. The same was seen in a cohort of 50 patients with relapsed MCL that were mainly treated within the phase 2 Philemon-trial with rituximab, ibrutinib, and lenalidomide. In patients who were newly diagnosed and had low levels of sCD163, 5-year survival was 97%. There was a moderate correlation between sCD163 and tissue CD163. The association with a poor prognosis was independent of MCL international prognostic index, Ki67, p53 status, and blastoid morphology, as assessed in a multivariable Cox proportional hazards model. In this study, high sCD163 was associated with both shorter PFS and shorter OS, showing that high levels of the M2 macrophage marker sCD163 is an independent negative prognostic factor in MCL, both in the chemoimmunotherapy and ibrutinib/lenalidomide era. In addition, low sCD163 levels identify patients with MCL with a very good prognosis.

ОСОБЕННОСТИ СОДЕРЖАНИЯ МАРКЕРОВ ТРОМБООБРАЗОВАНИЯ У МУЖЧИН И ЖЕНЩИН С ФИБРИЛЛЯЦИЕЙ ПРЕДСЕРДИЙ НЕКЛАПАННОГО ГЕНЕЗА

Introduction. Every year there is more and more data on the gender characteristics of cardiovascular diseases and factors predisposing to their development. It is now well known that men and women with atrial fibrillation (AF) differ in most clinical and demographic characteristics. The most formidable complication of atrial fibrillation is thromboembolic syndrome, which develops in 8-15% of cases. The system of signaling molecules CD40-CD40L is involved in the processes of thrombosis and inflammation. The main source of soluble CD40L is activated platelets. In this regard, it seems relevant to us to analyze the CD40/CD40L system in patients with AF of different sexes. Purpose: to study the content of CD40 and soluble CD40 ligand in blood serum in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation of different sexes, receiving anticoagulant therapy and having a history of TO and patients without thrombotic complications. Materials and Methods: The study included 22 healthy volunteers (11 women and 11 men) and 60 patients over 18 years of age with a diagnosis of atrial fibrillation (mean age 56.6±17.9), verified on the basis of clinical guidelines (ESC 2020 recommendations on diagnosis and treatment of atrial fibrillation), confirmed by ECG, receiving anticoagulant therapy in accordance with current recommendations. Of these, 21 patients developed thrombotic complications on the background of adequate anticoagulant therapy. Two groups of patients were formed: the group without thrombotic complications consisted of 18 women and 21 men, and the group of patients with thrombotic complications that occurred consisted of 10 women and 11 men. The study of the content of CD40 (pg/ml) and sCD40L (ng/ml) in blood serum was carried out by enzyme immunoassay. Results: an increased content of sCD40L was found in women compared with men in the group of patients with TO Me-17.98(14.71;19.58) vs 14.07(9.83;17.95) and in the group without TO Me-15.58(10.82;19.21) vs 9.58(6.19;15.14) p≤0.005; no differences were found in the group of healthy volunteers. There was no statistically significant difference in CD40 levels between men and women in the groups of patients with AF. Conclusion: thus, a comparative analysis of the indicators of the CD40/sCD40L system demonstrated significant gender differences in patients with AF. Thus, women were characterized by higher levels of the thrombus marker sCD40L compared to men, the highest level was observed in women in the group with thrombotic complications.

Increased gut permeability and bacterial translocation are associated with fibromyalgia and myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome: implications for disease-related biomarker discovery.

There is growing evidence of the significance of gastrointestinal complaints in the impairment of the intestinal mucosal barrier function and inflammation in fibromyalgia (FM) and in myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). However, data on intestinal permeability and gut barrier dysfunction in FM and ME/CFS are still limited with conflicting results. This study aimed to assess circulating biomarkers potentially related to intestinal barrier dysfunction and bacterial translocation and their association with self-reported symptoms in these conditions. A pilot multicenter, cross-sectional cohort study with consecutive enrolment of 22 patients with FM, 30 with ME/CFS and 26 matched healthy controls. Plasma levels of anti-beta-lactoglobulin antibodies (IgG anti-β-LGB), zonulin-1 (ZO-1), lipopolysaccharides (LPS), soluble CD14 (sCD14) and interleukin-1-beta (IL-1β) were assayed using ELISA. Demographic and clinical characteristics of the participants were recorded using validated self-reported outcome measures. The diagnostic accuracy of each biomarker was assessed using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. FM patients had significantly higher levels of anti-β-LGB, ZO-1, LPS, and sCD14 than healthy controls (all P < 0.0001). In ME/CFS patients, levels of anti-β-LGB, ZO-1, LPS, and sCD14 were significantly higher than controls, but lower than in FM (all P < 0.01), while there was no significant difference in IL-1β level. In the FM and ME/CFS cohorts, both anti-β-LGB and ZO-1 correlated significantly with LPS and sCD14 (P < 0.001 for both). In the FM group, both anti-β-LGB and ZO-1 were correlated significantly with physical and mental health components on the SF-36 scale (P < 0.05); whereas IL-1β negatively correlated with the COMPASS-31 score (P < 0.05). In the ME/CFS cohort, ZO-1 was positively correlated with the COMPASS-31 score (P < 0.05). The ROC curve analysis indicated a strong ability of anti-β-LGB, ZO-1, LPS and sCD14 to predictively distinguish between FM and ME/CFS from healthy controls (P < 0.0001). Biomarkers of intestinal barrier function and inflammation were associated with autonomic dysfunction assessed by COMPASS-31 scores in FM and ME/CFS respectively. Anti-β-LGB antibodies, ZO-1, LPS, and sCD14 may be putative predictors of intestinal barrier dysfunction in these cohorts. Further studies are needed to assess whether these findings are causal and can therefore be applied in clinical practice.

Clinical Utility of Soluble CD163 and its Diagnostic and Prognostic Value in a Variety of Neurological Disorders.

Nowadays, many people suffer from Neurological Diseases (NDs), particularly neurodegenerative diseases. Hence, there is an urgent need to discover new and more effective diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers as well as therapeutic strategies for the treatment of NDs. In this context, detecting biomarkers can provide helpful information on various levels of NDs. Up to now, there has been a lot of progress in recognizing these diseases, but they are not completely clear yet. NDs are associated with inflammatory conditions and there are several differences in NDs' immune biomarkers compared to normal conditions. Among these biomarkers, soluble CD163 (sCD163) levels (as a new biomarker) increase in biofluids, relating to the activation of macrophage/microglia and inflammation levels in NDs. ADAM17/TACE and ADAM10 are the responsible enzymes for producing sCD163 from macrophages. Increased shedding of CD163 is caused by inflammatory stimuli, and a function has been hypothesized for sCD163 in immunological suppression. When the body confronts an inflammation or infection, the concentration of sCD163 drives up. sCD163 is stable and can be easily quantified in the serum. In addition to its role as a biomarker, sCD163 can be a good modulator of adaptive immune suppression after stroke. sCD163, with a long half-life, has been proposed to be a surrogate for some critical markers such as Tumor Necrosis Factor-α (TNF- α). Furthermore, sCD163 production can be regulated by some regents/approaches such as zidovudine, nanotechnology, combination antiretroviral treatment, and aprepitant. Considering the importance of the issue, the critical role of sCD163 in NDs was highlighted for novel diagnostic and prognostic purposes.

ДЕТЕРМИНАНТЫ ВЫСОКОЙ И НИЗКОЙ ОСТАТОЧНОЙ РЕАКТИВНОСТИ ТРОМБОЦИТОВ ПРИ ПРИЕМЕ КЛОПИДОГРЕЛА В 1-2 СУТКИ ИНФАРКТА МИОКАРДА

The aim of the study was to determine the clinical and laboratory factors that determine high and low platelet reactivity in patients taking clopidogrel on day 1-2 of myocardial infarction (MI). Material and Methods. A total of 405 patients (322 men and 83 women) with MI aged 31 to 74 years were examined. Group 1 included patients with low residual platelet reactivity (LRPR) – 89 people, group 2 consisted of patients with optimal platelet reactivity (OPR) – 223 people, group 3 was composed of patients with high residual platelet reactivity (HRPR) – 93 people. Platelet aggregation was assessed on a Multiplate impedance aggregometer (Germany) with several aggregation inducers. A blood test and a study of morphometric parameters of platelets were performed by the cytoflow method on an automated hematology analyzer Sysmex XS-500i (Japan). The study of the level of soluble CD40 ligand (sСD40L) and sP-selectin was performed in 140 patients, von Willebrand factor (VWF) and endothelin-1 were assessed in 150 people on the enzyme immunoassay analyzer Sunrise (TECAN, Austria) using Fine Biotech kits (China). All studies were performed upon admission to the hospital on day 1-2 of MI (at least 12 hours after the administration of a loading dose of clopidogrel). Results. A one-way linear regression analysis identified the following factors that independently affect the value of the ADP-test: age (β=-0.21, 95% CI: -0.42 – -0.0095; p=0.04); total cholesterol (β=1.4, 95% CI: 0.26–2.56; p=0.04); white blood cell count (β= 0.57, 95% CI: 0.003–1.14; p=0.049); hemoglobin (β=-0.16, 95% CI: -0.27 – -0.044; p=0.0067); platelet count (β=1.4, 95% CI: 0.26 – 2.56; p=0.04); PCT (β=76.8, 95% CI: 41.5 – 112.1; p=0.000024); TRAP-test (β=0.4, 95% CI: 0.33–0.46; p&lt;0.000001); CD40L (β=0.044, 95% CI: 0.013–0.074; p=0.005); sP-selectin (β=2.3, 95% CI: 0.63 – 3.97; p=0.007); VWF (β=0.06, 95% CI: 0.016 – 0.11; p=0.0085). To determine the probability of HRPR developing a binary logistic regression model was constructed based on the observational data of a sample of 398 patients, which included the following indicators: age, white blood cell count, mean platelet volume (MPV) and platelet distribution width (PDW) values, results of TRAP-test and the level of creatinine. At the probability cut-off p=0.4746, the sensitivity of the constructed model was 74.2%, specificity - 74.1%, classification accuracy – 74.1%, the area under the ROC-curve – 0.795 (CI: 0.745 – 0.844). To determine the probability of developing LRPR, a binary logistic regression model was constructed based on the observational data of 143 patients, which included the following indicators: the number of leukocytes, MPV and TRAP-test values, fibrinogen and VWF levels. With a probability cut-off p=0.5589, the sensitivity of this model was 84.6%, specificity – 77.8%, classification accuracy – 79.0%, the area under the ROC-curve – 0.826 (CI: 0.747 – 0.905). Conclusion. On days 1-2 of MI, 22% of patients with an excessive response to clopidogrel and 23% with an insufficient response to clopidogrel were identified. The determinants of HRPR are age, white blood cell count, MPV, PDW, TRAP-test and creatinine levels. The determinants of LRPR are white blood cell count, MPV values, spontaneous platelet aggregation, detected by the TRAP-test, the level of fibrinogen and VWF.