Expression of Transforming Growth Factor Beta 1 in Vitiligo

Background: Vitiligo is characterized by selective destruction of melanocytes. Transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGFβ 1) is the main product of regulatory T cells (Tregs) which are deficient in vitiligo. Thus, lower levels of serum TGFβ 1 are expected in vitiligo. However, TGFβ 1 is a keratinocytederived cytokine with inhibitory effect on melanocyte activity. Thus it may be expected to be higher in the sera of patients with vitiligo. Objectives: To evaluate the serum level of TGFβ 1 in vitiligo and its correlation with disease parameters, in order to determine its actual role in the pathogenesis of vitiligo. Patients and Methods: Serum levels of 24 patients with vitiligo and 23 controls were collected for quantification of TGF-β 1 by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit. Results: There was no significant difference between mean serum TGF-β 1 in patients and controls. However, mean serum TGF-β 1 was higher in patients with active disease than in patients with inactive disease and this difference was statistically significant (p=0.024). No correlation was detected between mean serum levels of TGFβ 1 and other disease parameters. Conclusions: The results of this study demonstrate that serum TGF-β 1 does not seem to have direct role in the pathogenesis of vitiligo. However, this does not exclude its cutaneously produced effect on production of vitiligenous lesions.