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Study links specific invariant T cells to pathogenesis of ankylosing spondylitis
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Investigators of this study found mucosal-associated invariant T cells may play a role in the pathogenesis of ankylosing spondylitis.
“We showed that [mucosal-associated invariant T] MAIT cells are activated, but have a reduced frequency in the peripheral blood of patients with [ankylosing spondylitis] AS,” the researchers wrote. “Although our present findings suggest the involvement of MAIT cells in AS, further studies to determine the mechanisms underlying the contribution of MAIT cells to disease development and progression will lead to a better understanding of AS pathogenesis.”
Researchers determined the frequency of MAIT cells and the production of cytokines in 30 patients with AS and 21 healthy controls. Investigators used flow cytometry to analyze the patients with AS for the MAIT cell activation marker CD69.
Results showed patients with AS had a lower frequency of MAIT cells in peripheral blood compared with the healthy controls. Compared with controls, investigators noted patients with AS had higher levels of interleukin-17 produced by MAIT cells following activation. In patients with AS, investigators found there was an association between the ankylosing spondylitis disease activity score and CD69 expression on the MAIT cells. ‒ by Monica Jaramillo
Disclosure: The researchers report no relevant financial disclosures.
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