Enhanced Innate and Acquired Immune Responses in Systemic Sclerosis Primary Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells (PBMCs)

Chronic immune activation in systemic sclerosis is supported by the production of a plethora cytokines with proven regulatory activities responses. This study aimed to explore PBMCs’ cytokine profiles SSc patients versus controls, as well investigate balance between pro- and anti-inflammatory association disease duration. PBMCs were isolated from 18 17 controls further subjected vitro stimulation lipopolysaccharide heat-killed Candida albicans. Cytokine was measured after 24 h 7 days, respectively, using ELISA kits for interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra), IL-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF), IL-10, IL-17, interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma). β, TNF levels increased compared healthy volunteers irrespective stimulus used. IL-1Ra Il-17 concentrations not statistically different groups, even though trend toward higher their matched also observed. Most demonstrated stable course progression, except IL-10 levels, which declined over time. In conclusion, results this pilot reveal that persistently enhanced response established maintained regardless or