Influência das variantes genéticas do gene IL6 no transtorno depressivo maior: uma revisão / nfluence of IL6 gene genetic variants on major depressive disorder: a review / Influencia de las variantes genéticas del gen IL6 en el trastorno depresivo mayor: una revisión

Objetivo:Elucidar o quadro clínico do transtorno depressivo maior (TDM) e verificar a associação dessa condição com polimorfismos do gene IL6. Método:Tratou-se de uma revisão sistemática com a busca de artigos originais nas bases de dados Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed e BVS, os quais trouxeram informações sobre variantes genéticas que tinham relação com polimorfismos do gene IL6. Estudos que não apresentaram dados completos, inclusive dados estatísticos, revisões, meta-análises e resumos, foram excluídos. Resultados:Foram encontrados 54 artigos nas bases de dados. Utilizou-se a plataforma Rayyan para retirar as duplicatas e ler os resumos para seleçãoinicial. Restaram 12 artigos, onde os que eram de acesso livre foram encaminhados para leitura completa, totalizando 5 artigos para essa revisão. Conclusão:Evidências sugerem uma condição sistêmica no TDM e dados demonstram alterações inflamatórias. Dadoque na maior parte dos estudos pacientes com TDM tiveram estados inflamatórios mais elevados, parece haver relação entre a IL-6 e o transtorno. A IL-6 induz alterações no cérebro, ativação de microglia e controla a saúde dos neurônios, podendo tornar tangível uma relação dos polimorfismos com a doença, mas ainda não existem muitos estudos na área

Objective:To elucidate the clinical picture of major depressive disorder (MDD) and to verify the association of this condition with polymorphisms of the IL6 gene. Method:This was a systematic review with the search of original articles in the databases Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed and VHL, which brought information about genetic variants that were related to polymorphisms of the IL6 gene. Studies that did not present complete data, including statistical data, reviews, meta-analyses and abstracts, were excluded. Results:A total of 54 articles were found in the databases. The Rayyan platform was used to remove the duplicates and read the abstracts for initial selection. There were 12 articles, where those that were freely accessible were sent for full reading, totaling 5 articles for this review. Conclusion:Evidence suggests a systemic condition in MDD and data demonstrate inflammatory changes. Given that in most studies patients with MDD had higher inflammatory states, there seems to be a relationship between IL-6 and the disorder. IL-6 induces changes in the brain, activation of microglia and controls the health of neurons, and may make tangible a relationship between polymorphisms and the disease, but there are not many studies in the area.

Objetivo: Dilucidar el cuadro clínico del trastorno depresivo mayor (TDM) y verificar la asociación de esta condición con polimorfismos del gen IL6. Método: Se trata de una revisión sistemática con búsqueda de artículos originales en las bases de datos Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed y BVS, que aportaron información sobre variantes genéticas relacionadas con polimorfismos del gen IL6. Se excluyeron los estudios que no presentaron datos completos, incluidos datos estadísticos, revisiones, metanálisis y resúmenes. Resultados:Se encontraron un total de 54 artículos en las bases de datos. La plataforma Rayyan se utilizó para eliminar los duplicados y leer los resúmenes para la selección inicial. Hubo 12 artículos, donde aquellos que eran de libre acceso fueron enviados para lectura completa, totalizando 5 artículos para esta revisión. Conclusión:La evidencia sugiere una condición sistémica en el TDM y los datos demuestran cambios inflamatorios. Dado que en la mayoría de los estudios los pacientes con TDM tenían estados inflamatorios más altos, parece haber una relación entre la IL-6 y el trastorno. La IL-6 induce cambios en el cerebro, la activación de la microglía y controla la salud de las neuronas, y puede hacer tangible una relación entre los polimorfismos y la enfermedad, pero no hay muchos estudios en el área.

Therapeutics and COVID-19: living guideline - 16 September 2022

The WHO Therapeutics and COVID-19: living guideline contains the Organization's most up-to-date recommendations for the use of therapeutics in the treatment of COVID-19. The latest version of this living guideline is available in pdf format (via the 'Download' button) and via an online platform, and is updated regularly as new evidence emerges. This twelfth version of the WHO living guideline now contains 19 recommendations. This latest update provides updated recommendations for remdesivir, addresses the use of combination therapy with corticosteroids, interleukin-6 (IL-6) receptor blockers and Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors in patients with severe or critical COVID-19, and modifies previous recommendations for the neutralizing monoclonal antibodies sotrovimab and casirivimab-imdevimab in patients with non-severe COVID-19.

Ejercicio aeróbico versus concurrente sobre la interleucina-6 en pacientes con enfermedad arterial coronaria: Una revisión sistemática / Aerobic Versus Concurrent Exercise on Interleukin-6 in Patients with Coronary Arterial Disease: A Systematic Review

Resumen El ejercicio aeróbico (EA) ha demostrado ser beneficioso para la supervivencia del paciente con enfermedad arterial coronaria (EAC) y la disminución de la interleucina 6 (IL-6). Sin embargo, hay poco evidencia del efecto del entrenamiento concurrente (EC). Propósito: Analizar el efecto del EA versus EC sobre la IL-6 en pacientes con EAC. Metodología: Se desarrolló con base en los acuerdos PRISMA, se realizó una búsqueda de los artículos científicos mediante bases de datos electrónicas. Los términos de búsqueda (frase booleana) fueron los siguientes: ("coronary artery disease" OR ''cardiac disease'' OR "cardiovascular disease") AND (''exercise'' OR ''training'' OR "cardiac rehabilitation") AND ("IL-6" OR "Interleukin-6" OR "inflammatory markers"). Las búsquedas se realizaron entre agosto y diciembre de 2019. Resultados: Se revisaron un total de 2516 estudios, de los cuales se incluyeron 10 estudios que cumplieron con los criterios de elegibilidad. Se analizaron un total de 413 pacientes. Se encontró una mejoría entre un 5% y un 74% con el EA y entre un 2.3% y 58.8% con el EC. Ambas modalidades disminuye significativamente la IL-6, independientemente de la edad, sesiones de entrenamiento semanales y de la etapa inicial de los pacientes con EAC, pero aquellos estudios que utilizaron una alta intensidad o un volumen superior a 30 minutos presentaron mayores beneficios. Conclusión: Tanto el EA como el EC son beneficiosos en la disminución de la IL-6 en pacientes con EAC. Esta revisión sistemática deja la posibilidad de continuar investigando el comportamiento de la alta intensidad en la disminución de la IL-6.

Abstract Aerobic exercise (AE) has been shown to be beneficial for the survival of patients with CAD and the decrease in interleukin 6 (IL-6). However, there is little evidence of the effect of concurrent training (CT). Purpose: To analyze the effect of AE versus CT on IL-6 in patients with CAD. Methodology: It was developed based on the PRISMA agreements; scientific articles were searched through electronic databases. The search terms (Boolean phrase) were the following: ("coronary artery disease" OR '' cardiac disease '' OR "cardiovascular disease") AND ('' exercise '' OR '' training '' OR "cardiac rehabilitation") AND ("IL-6" OR "Interleukin-6" OR "inflammatory markers") NOT ("animals" OR "rat"). The searches were conducted between August and December 2019. Results: A total of 2516 studies were reviewed, of which 10 studies that met the eligibility criteria were included. A total of 413 patients were analyzed. An improvement was found between 5% and 74% with the AE and between 2.3% and 58.8% with the CT. Both modalities significantly decrease IL-6, regardless of age, weekly training sessions, and the initial stage of patients with CAD; however, those studies that used a high intensity or a volume greater than 30 minutes showed greater benefits. Conclusion: Both EA and CT are beneficial in reducing IL-6 in patients with CAD. This systematic review leaves the possibility of continuing to investigate the behavior of high intensity in the decrease of IL-6.

Resumo O exercício aeróbio (EA) demonstrou beneficiar a sobrevivência dos pacientes com doença arterial coronária (DAC) e diminuir a interleucina 6 (IL-6). No entanto, há poucas evidências do efeito do treino simultâneo (TC). Objetivo: Analisar o efeito da EA versus TC na IL-6 em pacientes com DAC. Metodologia: Com base nos acordos PRISMA, foi realizada uma pesquisa de artigos científicos utilizando bases de dados eletrônicas. Os termos de busca (frase booleana) foram os seguintes: (''doença arterial coronária'' OU ''doença cardíaca'' OU ''doença cardiovascular'') E (''exercício'' OU ''treinamento'' OU ''reabilitação cardíaca'') E (''IL-6'' OU ''Interleucina-6'' OU ''marcadores inflamatórios''). As pesquisas foram realizadas entre agosto e dezembro de 2019. Resultados: Um total de 2516 estudos foram revistos, dos quais foram incluídos 10 estudos que preenchiam os critérios de elegibilidade. Foram analisados um total de 413 pacientes. A melhoria foi encontrada entre 5% e 74% com a EA e entre 2,3% e 58,8% com o TC. Ambas as modalidades diminuíram significativamente a IL-6, independentemente da idade, das sessões semanais de treinamento e do estágio inicial dos pacientes com DAC, mas os estudos que utilizaram alta intensidade ou volume superior a 30 minutos tiveram maiores benefícios. Conclusão: Tanto a EA como a TC são benéficas para a redução da IL-6 em pacientes com DAC. Esta revisão sistemática deixa espaço para uma investigação mais aprofundada sobre o comportamento de baixa intensidade da IL-6.

Infecções graves por SARS-CoV-2 com uso de tocilizumabe / Severe infections by SARS-CoV-2 with the use of tocilizumab

O SARS-CoV-2 é causador da doença infecciosa COVID-19. A infecção estimula o sistema imunológico a produzir citocinas próinflamatórias. A principal citocina envolvida é a IL-6, e está ligada à gravidade da doença. Devido à associação dos altos níveis de IL-6 com a mortalidade na COVID-19, investiga-se sobre o uso de tocilizumabe (TCZ), um anticorpo monoclonal humanizado antirreceptor de IL-6 humana. O objetivo desta revisão sistemática é avaliar a eficácia do uso do TCZ em pacientes com COVID-19 grave. As buscas foram feitas através das bases de dados Science Direct e PubMed em setembro de 2021. Foram incluídos os ensaios clínicos randomizados com pacientes em um único estágio de COVID-19, casos graves e sem restrição de idade, os quais receberam o TCZ como medicação de intervenção combinado a tratamentos protocolados por cada hospital e associado a corticosteroides. A análise desses estudos demonstrou resultados significantes sobre o uso de TCZ em casos severos de COVID-19. O uso de TCZ associado a glicocorticoides levou a uma redução no índice de mortalidade e de submissão a ventilações mecânicas e a uma melhora expressiva em relação à escala "WHO-endorsed 7-point ordinal scale". Entretanto, não houve melhora relevante quanto ao uso do TCZ de maneira isolada.

SARS-CoV-2 causes the COVID-19 infectious disease that affects the respiratory tract. From the beginning of the infection, the immune system starts to produce pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines. The main cytokine involved is IL-6 and is linked to the severity and prognosis of the disease, as it provokes a storm of cytokines and severe inflammatory responses. Due to the association of high levels of IL-6 with severity and mortality in COVID-19, the use of Tocilizumab (TCZ), a humanized anti-human IL-6 receptor monoclonal antibody, which binds to IL receptors, is being investigated. -6 and blocks intracellular signaling reducing cytokine storm and hyperinflammatory state. The aim of this review is to assess the effectiveness of using TCZ in the treatment of patients with severe COVID-19. Searches were performed using the Science Direct and PubMed databases in May 2021. Randomized clinical trials with patients in a single stage of COVID­19, severe cases and without age restriction, who received TCZ as medication for treatment, were included. Intervention was combined with treatments protocoled by each hospital and associated with corticosteroids. The analysis of these studies showed significant results regarding the use of TCZ in severe cases of COVID-19. The use of TCZ associated with glucocorticoids led to a reduction in the rate of mortality and compliance with mechanical ventilation and a significant improvement in relation to the "WHO-endorsed 7-point ordinal scale". However, there was no evidence of relevant improvement when using TCZ alone.

Tratamiento con tocilizumab en amiloidosis AA: informe de casos y revisión de la literatura / Tocilizumab treatment in aa amyloidosis: case report and literature review

Introducción: la amiloidosis AA puede ser una complicación de ciertos trastornos inflamatorios crónicos, aunque entre el 21% y 50% puede ser idiopática. No existe un tratamiento específico. El tocilizumab, dirigido contra el receptor de IL-6 y orientado a disminuir la producción de SAA, podría ser eficaz. Métodos: en este estudio informamos datos de 6 pacientes con amiloidosis AA tratados con tocilizumab monoterapia subcutáneo en el período 2011-2018. Los criterios de valoración principales fueron la mejora clínica y bioquímica de los órganos afectados y los parámetros bioquímicos marcadores de inflamación. Resultados: el riñón estaba afectado en todos los pacientes, manifestándose con caída del filtrado glomerular y síndrome nefrótico. La hemorragia digestiva se presentó en un paciente y otro tenía afectación pulmonar en la biopsia. Luego del posterior al tratamiento, todos mejoraron el hematocrito, la albúmina sérica y el índice de masa corporal. El SAA disminuyó en 5 pacientes. Un paciente mejoró su función renal, mientras 4 se mantuvieron estables. Tres pacientes disminuyeron los valores de proteinuria. Conclusión: el tratamiento con tocilizumab podría ser eficaz en el tratamiento de los pacientes con amiloidosis AA. (AU)

Introduction: AA amyloidosis can be a complication of certain chronic inflammatory disorders, although between 21% and 50% can be idiopathic. There is no specific treatment. Tocilizumab, directed against the IL-6 receptor and aimed at decreasing SAA production, could be effective. Methods: in this study, we report data from 6 patients with AA amyloidosis treated with subcutaneous tocilizumab monotherapy between the period 2011-2018. The main endpoints were the clinical and biochemical improvement of the affected organs and the biochemical parameters markers of inflammation. Results: the kidney was affected in all patients, manifesting with a fall in glomerular filtration rate and nephrotic syndrome. Gastrointestinal bleeding occurred in one patient and another had lung involvement on biopsy. After treatment, all improved hematocrit, serum albumin, and body mass index. SAA decreased in 5 patients. One patient improved his kidney function, while 4 remained stable. Three patients decreased proteinuria values. Conclusion: treatment with tocilizumab could be effective in the treatment of patients with AA amyloidosis. (AU)

Evaluation of variants in IL6R, TLR3, and DC-SIGN genes associated with dengue in a sampled Colombian population / Evaluación de las variantes en los genes IL6R, TLR3 y DC-SIGN asociadas con dengue en una muestra de población colombiana

Abstract Introduction: Host genetics is recognized as an influential factor for the development of dengue disease. Objective: This study evaluated the association of dengue with the polymorphisms rs8192284 for gene IL6R, rs3775290 for TLR3, and rs7248637 for DC-SIGN. Materials and methods: Of the 292 surveyed subjects, 191 were confirmed for dengue fever and the remaining 101 were included as controls. The genotypes were resolved using polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR- RFLP). In an attempt to determine the risk (Odds Ratio) of suffering dengue fever, data were analyzed using chi-square for alleles and logistic regression for both genotypes and allelic combinations. Confidence intervals were set to 95% for all tests regardless of the adjustment by either self-identification or ancestry. Results: For Afro-Colombians, the allele rs8192284 C offered protection against dengue [OR=0.425,(0.204-0.887), p=0.020]. The alleles rs7248637 A and rs3775290 A posed, respectively, an increased risk of dengue for Afro-Colombians [OR=2.389, (1.170-4.879), p=0.015] and Mestizos [OR=2.329, (1.283-4.226), p=0.005]. The reproducibility for rs8192284 C/C [OR=2.45, (1.05-5.76), p=0.013] remained after adjustment by Amerindian ancestry [OR=2.52, (1.04-6.09), p=0.013]. The reproducibility for rs3775290 A/A [OR=2.48, (1.09-5.65), p=0.033] remained after adjustment by European [OR=2.34, (1.02-5.35), p=0.048], Amerindian [OR=2.49, (1.09-5.66), p=0.035], and African ancestry [OR=2.37, (1.04-5.41), p=0.046]. Finally, the association of dengue fever with the allelic combination CAG [OR=2.07, (1.06-4.05), p=0.033] remained after adjustment by Amerindian ancestry [OR=2.16, (1.09-4.28), p=0.028]. Conclusions: Polymorphisms rs8192284 for IL6R, rs3775290 for TLR3, and rs7248637 for DC-SIGN were associated with the susceptibility to suffer dengue fever in the sampled Colombian population.

Resumen Introducción. La genética del huésped se reconoce como un factor que influye en el desarrollo del dengue. Objetivo. Este estudio evaluó la asociación del dengue con los polimorfismos rs8192284 del gen IL6R, rs3775290 del TLR3 y rs7248637 del DC-SIGN. Materiales y métodos. De los 292 sujetos encuestados, en 191 se confirmó la presencia de fiebre por dengue y los restantes 101 se incluyeron como controles. Los genotipos se resolvieron mediante reacción en cadena de la polimerasa y polimorfismos en la longitud de los fragmentos de restricción (PCR-RFLP). En un intento por determinar el riesgo de sufrir dengue, los datos se analizaron mediante la prueba de ji al cuadrado para los alelos y la regresión logística para los genotipos y las combinaciones alélicas. Los intervalos de confianza se calcularon a 95 % para todas las pruebas independientemente ajustadas por autoidentificación o componente genético ancestral. Resultados. En los afrocolombianos, el alelo C rs8192284 ofreció protección contra el dengue (OR=0,425; 0,204-0,887, p=0,020). Los alelos A rs7248637 y Ars3775290 plantearon un mayor riesgo de dengue para los afrocolombianos (OR=2,389; 1,170- 4,879; p=0,015) y los mestizos (OR=2,329; 1,283-4,226: p=0,005), respectivamente. La reproducibilidad para rs8192284 C/C (OR=2,45; 1,05-5,76; p=0,013) permaneció después del ajuste por el componente genético ancestral amerindio (OR=2,52; 1,04- 6,09; p=0,013). La reproducibilidad del rs3775290 A/A (OR=2,48; 1,09-5,65; p=0,033) permaneció después del ajuste por el componente europeo (OR=2,34; 1,02-5,35; p=0,048), el amerindio (OR=2,49; 1,09- 5,66; p=0,035), y el africano (OR=2,37; 1,04- 5,41; p=0,046). Por último, la asociación del dengue con la combinación alélica CAG (OR=2,07; 1,06-4,05; p=0,033) permaneció después del ajuste por el componente genético amerindio (OR=2,16; 1,09-4,28;p=0,028). Conclusión. Los polimorfismos rs8192284 en IL6R, rs3775290 en TLR3 y rs7248637 en DC-SIGN, se asociaron con la propensión a sufrir dengue en una muestra de población colombiana.

Tocilizumab-induced Thrombocytopenia in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis

OBJECTIVE: Interlukin-6 (IL-6) increases platelet count during inflammation and may act in a manner similar to thrombopoietin. Tocilizumab is a monoclonal antibody of the IL-6 receptor and widely used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Here, we evaluated the incidence of tocilizumab-induced thrombocytopenia and clinical factors associated with the development of thrombocytopenia. METHODS: Patients with RA, who were treated with tocilizumab and had exposed to other biologics previously in a tertiary hospital between January 2014 and December 2017, were retrospectively evaluated. We compared occurrence of thrombocytopenia between tocilizumab and previous biologics. Furthermore, the factors associated with thrombocytopenia were analyzed using logistic regression analysis. RESULTS: In total, 114 patients with RA were treated with tocilizumab for mean 90.5 weeks (interquartile range, 30.9~174.9). Thrombocytopenia was reported in 14 patients (12.3%) and it was higher rate compared with previous biologics. Most cases were grade 1 thrombocytopenia. Multivariate analysis showed that patient age (odds ratio [OR], 2.170; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.118~4.211; p=0.022) and platelet count prior to treatment with tocilizumab (OR, 0.972; 95% CI, 0.954~0.990; p=0.002) were significantly associated with the development of thrombocytopenia. CONCLUSION: Old age is risk factor for developing tocilizumab-induced thrombocytopenia and higher platelet count prior to treatment is associated with lowering risk of development of thrombocytopenia. However, thrombocytopenia was tolerable.

Anticancer Activity of Tubulosine through Suppression of Interleukin-6-Induced Janus Kinase 2/Signal Transducer and Activation of Transcription 3 Signaling / 한국유방암학회지

PURPOSE: The chemical structure of tubulosine has been known since the mid-1960s. However, little is known about its biological and pharmacological functions. The aim of this study was to investigate the novel functions of tubulosine in cancer treatment, specifically in breast cancer. METHODS: An Unpaired (Upd)-induced Drosophila cell line and interleukin (IL)-6-stimulated human breast cancer cell lines were used to investigate the biological and pharmacological activities of tubulosine in vitro. To investigate the activities of tubulosine, we performed molecular and cellular experiments such as Western blot and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction analyses, immunoprecipitation and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling assays, and immunofluorescence staining using breast cancer cell lines. RESULTS: Tubulosine exhibited anticancer activity in IL-6-stimulated human breast cancer cells. Moreover, tubulosine reduced the tyrosine phosphorylation level and transcriptional activity of signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) protein at 92E in Upd-induced Drosophila cells. Additionally, tubulosine suppressed IL-6-induced Janus kinase 2 (JAK2)/STAT3 signaling, resulting in decreased viability and induction of apoptotic cell death in breast cancer cells. Interestingly, inhibition of IL-6-induced JAK2/STAT3 signaling by tubulosine was associated with the blocking of IL-6 receptor (IL-6R) and glycoprotein 130 (gp130) binding. CONCLUSION: Tubulosine exhibits anticancer activity through functional inhibition of IL-6-induced JAK2/STAT3 signaling by targeting IL-6Rα/gp130 binding in breast cancer cells. These findings suggest that tubulosine may hold promise for the treatment of inflammation-associated cancers, including breast cancer.

Activation of the JAK/STAT signal pathway may be involved in DNA damage of A549 cells induced by X-ray / 生理学报

The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between the effects of different doses of X-rays on DNA damage and JAK/STAT signaling pathway activation in A549 cells. The A549 cells were radiated with X-rays at doses of 2, 4, and 8 Gy. The proliferation of A549 cells was detected by CCK8 method. The content of interleukin 6 (IL-6) in culture medium at different time points after irradiation was detected by enzyme-linked immunoassay, and the expression levels of IL-6 receptor (IL-6R) and p53 binding protein 1 (53BP1) were detected by immunofluorescent staining. The expression levels of JAK2, p-JAK2, STAT3 and p-STAT3 were detected by Western blot. The results showed that, compared with the control group, X-ray irradiation reduced the cellular proliferation, up-regulated the expression of 53BP1, increased the IL-6 content in the medium supernatant, and up-regulated the protein expression levels of IL-6R, JAK2, p-JAK2, STAT3, and p-STAT3. The above effects of X-ray irradiation were dose-dependent. These results suggest that the mechanism by which X-rays cause DNA damage in A549 cells may involve activation of the JAK/STAT signaling pathway.

Safety of Tocilizumab in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients with Resolved Hepatitis B Virus Infection: Data from Real-World Experience

To investigate whether the use of IL-6 receptor antagonist (tocilizumab) might be associated with hepatitis B virus (HBV) reactivation in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients, particularly in those with resolved HBV infection [HBV surface antigen (HBsAg) negative and antibody to HBV core antigen (anti-HBc) positive, serologically]. HBsAg, anti-HBc, antibody to HBsAg (anti-HBs), and HBV DNA titers were measured in RA patients who had continuously received tocilizumab for more than 3 months. Patients were divided into two groups according to the presence of anti-HBc. Clinical and laboratory data, in addition to medications administered along with tocilizumab during the treatment duration with tocilizumab, were compared between the two groups. HBV reactivation was defined as the presence of HBV DNA in sera, and alterations in HBsAg, anti-HBc, and anti-HBs titers according to the use of tocilizumab were also evaluated. Fifteen of 39 patients (38.5%) had anti-HBc positivity, while 24 patients (61.5%) did not. There were no differences in demographic data, serologic classification, and variables related to tocilizumab between the anti-HBc-positive and -negative groups. Comparison of the medications administered along with tocilizumab treatment revealed no meaningful differences. None of the patients experienced reactivation of HBV. In addition, in 15 patients with resolved HBV infection, no alterations in HBsAg, anti-HBc, and anti-HBs titers were observed with the use of tocilizumab. Tocilizumab may be applied to RA patients safely with few concerns for HBV reactivation, particularly in those with resolved HBV infection.

The regulatory role of IL-6R in hepatitis B-associated fibrosis and cirrhosis

This study investigated the expression and regulation of IL-6R in hepatitis B-associated moderate hepatic fibrosis and cirrhosis. Liver tissues, peripheral blood monocytes (PBMs) and serum were collected from 26 hepatitis B patients with liver fibrosis and 35 hepatitis B patients with liver cirrhosis. The levels of Il-6r mRNA expression in these samples were examined by quantitative real-time PCR and IL-6R protein levels were analyzed by western blot and ELISA. MiRNAs that regulate IL-6R expression were predicted by bioinformatics analysis, and validated by dual luciferase reporter assay. Compared with the hepatic fibrosis group, IL-6R was significantly upregulated at both mRNA and protein levels in liver tissues, PBMs and serum samples from the hepatic cirrhosis group (P<0.05). The 3′UTR of Il-6r mRNA was predicted to contain a miR-30b binding site and IL-6R was identified as a possible target of miR-30b. MiR-30b expression was significantly downregulated in samples from hepatic cirrhosis patients compared with hepatic fibrosis patients (P<0.05). In conclusion, IL-6R was upregulated while miR-30b was decreased in patients with liver cirrhosis. The miR-30 can directly regulate the expression of IL-6R.

Interleukin-6 Receptor Polymorphisms Contribute to the Neurological Status of Korean Patients with Ischemic Stroke

To investigate the contribution of the interleukin-6 receptor (IL-6R) gene single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) to the neurological status of Korean patients with ischemic stroke (IS), two SNPs of the IL-6R gene (rs4845617, 5 UTR; rs2228144, Ala31Ala) were selected. IS patients were classified into clinical phenotypes according to two well-defined scores: the National Institutes of Health Stroke Survey (NIHSS) and the Modified Barthel Index scores. There were 121 IS patients and 291 control subjects. The SNP rs4845617 significantly contributed to the neurological status of patients with IS (P = 0.011 in codominant model 2, P = 0.006 in recessive model, and P = 0.008 in log-additive model). Allele frequencies of rs4845617 and rs2228144 demonstrated no significant difference in IS patients and controls. The AG and GG haplotypes differed between the NIHSS 1 (NIHSS scores or = 6) group in patients with IS (P = 0.014, P = 0.0024). These results suggest that rs4845617 of the IL-6R gene is associated with the neurologic status of Korean patients with IS.

Tocilizumab: uma nova classe de agentes biológicos eficaz no tratamento da artrite reumatoide / Tocilizumab: a new biological agents class effective in treating rheumatoid arthritis

A artrite reumatoide é uma doença autoimune inflamatória sistêmica caracterizada pelo comprometimento da membrana sinovial das articulações periféricas. Cerca de 1% da população mundial é afetada, sendo três vezes mais prevalente em mulheres. Embora a etiologia não seja totalmente compreendida, acredita-se que seja multifatorial, resultante da interação entre fatores genéticos e ambientais. Possivelmente um evento autoimune ou infeccioso inicia a inflamação das articulações, que, em seguida, precipita uma série de respostas imunes complexas. O objetivo do trabalho foi revisar a fisiopatologia da artrite reumatoide, esclarecer o mecanismo de ação do Tocilizumab e identificar as reações adversas. O Tocilizumab é um agente biológico que teve seu uso aprovado em 2008 e atua como um antagonista do receptor de interleucina 6, bloqueando a transdução do sinal dessa citocina pró-inflamatória. Apesar das evidentes vantagens demonstradas com o uso do Tocilizumab no tratamento da artrite reumatoide, um pequeno número vem apresentando efeitos adversos graves em relação ao uso dessa droga.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic inflammatory autoimmune disease characterized by impairment of the synovial membrane of peripheral joints. About 1% of the world population is affected, which means that it is three times more prevalent among women. Althoug the etiology is not fully comprehended, it is believed to be multifactorial, resulting from the interaction between genetic and environmental factors. Possibly an autoimmune or infectious event initiates the inflammation of the joints, which, then, precipitates series of complex immune responses. The objective was to review the pathophysiology of rheumatoid arthritis, clarify the mechanism of action of Tocilizumab and identify adverse reactions. The Tocilizumab is a biological agent which had its use approved in 2008, it acts as an antagonist towards the interleukin 6 receptor, blocking the transduction signal of this proinflammatory cytokine. Despite the obvious advantages demonstrated with the use of tocilizumab in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, a small number is showing serious adverse effects concerning the use of the drug.

Appearance of Psoriasis after Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha Blocker and Use of Ustekinumab or Tocilizumab for Refractory Monoarthritis

Nowadays, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) blockers are used for treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel diseases, ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis, and psoriasis. Paradoxically, there are some reports on the appearance of psoriasis after administration of TNF-alpha blockers. Here, we report on a patient with monoarthritis in a knee joint who experienced psoriasis after TNF-alpha blocker therapy (adalimumab and etanercept). Oral medication was not a treatment option due to patient intolerance; thus, we tried ustekinumab, an anti-interleukin (IL)-12/23 monoclonal antibody used for treatment of psoriasis. Following ustekinumab injection, psoriatic skin lesions and joint symptoms were much improved. However, in the following period, joint pain and swelling became aggravated and synovial fluid cytokine levels including IL-6 and IL-17 were elevated. The treatment was changed to tocilizumab, a humanized monoclonal antibody against IL-6 receptor. After injection, knee joint swelling rapidly subsided without worsening of psoriatic skin lesions.

Estudio transversal bioquímico clínico en pacientes con artritis reumatoidea y su relación con el tabaquismo / Clinical laboratory transversal study in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and its relationship with smoking habits / Estudo transversal bioquímico clínico em pacientes com artrite reumatóide e sua relação com o tabagismo

En una población de pacientes con artritis reumatoidea (AR) se estudió la relación de esta patología con el tabaquismo, su perfil hormonal, la concentración de interleuquina 6 (IL 6) y la coexistencia de fibromialgia. Casi en el 50% de los pacientes, los valores de IL 6 fueron seis veces superiores al valor considerado normal. El hábito del tabaco, la edad y el tipo de tratamiento no influyeron en los valores de IL 6. En el subgrupo de pacientes con fibromialgia se observaron tanto altos niveles de IL 6 como bajos niveles de dehidroepiandrosterona (DHEA).

The relation between rheumatoid arthritis and smoking habits, hormonal status, interleuquin-6 levels and fibromyalgia in a population of patients was analyzed. Almost 50% showed IL6 values six times higher than the normal level. Smoking habits, age and the type of treatment did not influence IL-6 concentrations. Patients with fibromyalgia had high levels of IL6 as well as low dehydroepiandrosterone values.

Estuda-se numa população de pacientes com artrite reumatóide a relação desta patologia com o tabagismo, seu perfil hormonal, a concentração de interleucina 6 e a coexistência de fibromialgia. Quase no 50% dos pacientes os valores de IL 6 foram seis vezes superiores ao valor considerado normal. O hábito de fumar, a idade e o tipo de tratamento não influíram nos valores de IL 6. No subgrupo de pacientes com fibromialgia observa-se tanto altos níveis de IL 6 como baixos níveis de DHEA.

Influences of IL-6R antibody on PMMA bone cement-mediated expression of OPG and RANKL in synovial fibroblasts / 华中科技大学学报（医学）（英德文版）

Effect of interleukin-6 receptor (IL-6R) antibody on polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) bone cement-mediated expression of osteoprotegerin (OPG) and receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappaB ligand (RANKL) in synovial fibroblasts was investigated. Synovial tissue obtained from total knee arthroplasty was digested and cultured. Inverted microscope was employed to observe the synovial cells and immunocytochemistry (SABC method) staining was used to identify synovial fibroblasts. This experiment was divided into three groups according to different culture media: PMMA group (75 μg/mL PMMA bone cement particles), IL-6R antibody group (10 ng/mL IL-6R antibody+75 μg/mL PMMA bone cement particles), and control group (no IL-6R antibody or PMMA bone cement particles). Influence of IL-6R antibody and PMMA on proliferation of synovial fibroblasts was measured by cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8). ELISA method was used to measure OPG and RANKL levels in culture solution. Fluorescence quantitative real-time PCR (FQ-PCR) was used to detect the expression of OPG and RANKL mRNA. After three consecutive passages, more than 95% of the primary synovial cells became long spindle fibroblast-like cells. SABC staining results showed that the fibroblast-like cells were negative for anti-CD68 antibody and positive for anti-vimentin antibody, with brown madder stained. CCK-8 test demonstrated that the absorbance (A) value at 450 nm was significantly lower in IL-6R antibody group than in PMMA group and control group (P<0.01), but there was no statistically significant difference in A value at 450 nm between the control group and PMMA group (P>0.05). Results of ELISA indicated that the expression of OPG was significantly higher in IL-6R antibody group than in PMMA group and control group (P<0.01). The expression of RANKL was inhibited (P<0.05), and the ratio of OPG/RANKL was significantly increased in IL-6R antibody group as compared with PMMA group and control group. There was no significant difference in the expression of OPG between control group and PMMA group (P>0.05), but the expression of RANKL was higher in PMMA group than in control group (P<0.05), and there was a significant difference in the ratio of OPG/RANKL between them (P<0.05). Results of FQ-PCR revealed the expression of RANKL mRNA was significantly inhibited (P<0.01) and the expression of OPG mRNA was significantly increased (P<0.01) in IL-6R antibody group as compared with PMMA group and control group. The expression of RANKL mRNA was higher in PMMA group than in control group (P<0.05), but the expression of OPG mRNA had no significant difference between them (P>0.05). IL-6R antibody could significantly increase the expression of OPG, but inhibit the expression of RANKL, which might provide a theoretical basis of molecular biology for the prevention and treatment of aseptic loosening of prosthesis.

The expression of IL-6Ralpha and Gp130 in fallopian tubes bearing an ectopic pregnancy / 대한해부학회지

Women with tubal ectopic pregnancies have high levels of circulating interleukin 6 (IL-6). IL-6 treatment in vitro significantly reduces the ciliary activity of tubal epithelium. The effects of IL-6 on target cells occur via the formation of a high-affinity complex with its receptors IL-6Ralpha and glycoprotein 130 (Gp130). IL-6Ralpha is specifically expressed in the cilia of the epithelial cells. In this study, we performed a quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction to determine the mRNA expression of IL-6Ralpha and Gp130 in the fallopian tubes obtained from 12 women with ectopic pregnancies, 12 women with normal pregnancies, and 12 healthy nonpregnant women in the luteal phase of their menstrual cycle. Fallopian tubes were evaluated from specimens taken during tubal ligation in normal pregnancies and nonpregnant fertile women or during tubal surgery in ectopic pregnancies. We observed that IL-6Ralpha mRNA expression in fallopian tubes was increased in ectopic pregnancy compared with that in the midluteal phase. We also found that the Gp130 mRNA expression was significantly lower in fallopian tubes from ectopic pregnancies than in those from nonpregnant women during the midluteal phase of their menstrual cycle, although its expression was noticeably high in fallopian tubes in the midluteal phase, which suggests that high Gp130 levels may possibly contribute to embryo transport into the uterus.

Effect of 5-FU and MTX on the Expression of Drug-resistance Related Cancer Stem Cell Markers in Non-small Cell Lung Cancer Cells

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are often characterized by the elevated expression of drug-resistance related stem-cell surface markers, such as CD133 and ABCG2. Recently, we reported that CSCs have a high level of expression of the IL-6 receptor (IL-6R). The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of anticancer drugs on the expression of the drug resistance-related cancer stem cell markers, ABCG2, IL-6R, and CD133 in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cell lines. A549, H460, and H23 NSCLC cell lines were treated with the anticancer drugs 5-fluorouracil (5-FU; 25 microg/ml) and methotrexate (MTX; 50 microg/ml), and the expression of putative CSC markers was analyzed by fluorescent activated cell sorter (FACS) and the gene expression level of abcg2, il-6r and cd133 by reverse transcriptasepolymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). We found that the fraction of ABCG2-positive(+) cells was significantly increased by treatment with both 5-FU and MTX in NSCLC cells, and the elevation of abcg2, il-6r and cd133 expressions in response to these drugs was also confirmed using RT-PCR. Also, the number of IL-6R(+) cells was increased by MTX in the 3 cell lines mentioned and increased by 5-FU in the H460 cell line. The number of CD133(+) cells was also significantly increased by both 5-FU and MTX treatment in all of the cell lines tested. These results indicate that 5-FU and MTX considerably enhance the expression of drug-resistance related CSC markers in NSCLC cell lines. Thus, we suggest that antimetabolite cancer drugs, such as 5-FU and MTX, can lead to the propagation of CSCs through altering the expression of CSC markers.

Study of a novel compound 2460A with activities produced by fungus / 药学学报

With IL-6R as target, a new compound 2460A was identified from fungus using HTS screening model. The taxonomics of the produced strain was confirmed to be Trichoderma hazianum rifai after sequencing analysis of rDNA-ITS (internal transcribed spacer). Results showed that this compound has a binding activity on IL-6R competed with IL-6, thus it is a new ligand of IL-6R originating from microbe. With MTT assay, the anti-tumor activities of 2460A were demonstrated on CM126 and HT-29 cell lines separately, the IC50 are 2.17 x 10(-5) mol x L(-1) and 1.8 x 10(-5) mol x L(-1) respectively. The compound affected lightly the HT-29 cell cycle at S phase. Studies for the anti-tumor activity of 2460A in vivo are in progress in our lab.

A Case of Multicentric Castleman's Disease Having Lung Lesion Successfully Treated with Humanized Anti-interleukin-6 Receptor Antibody, Tocilizumab

This report presents the case of a patient demonstrating multicentric Castleman's disease (MCD) with a lung lesion that was successfully treated with an anti-interleukin-6 receptor antibody, tocilizumab in combination with corticosteroid and tacrolimus. A 43-yr-old female with abnormal shadows on a chest X-ray was referred to the hospital for further examination. She was diagnosed as having MCD based on the characteristic pathology of inguinal lymph node, lung lesions, laboratory data, and undifferentiated arthritis. Corticosteroid and rituximab therapy did not fully ameliorate the symptoms; thus, the therapeutic regimen was changed to include tocilizumab, oral corticosteroid and tacrolimus. This regimen resulted in clinical remission and the dose of tocilizumab and corticosteroid could be tapered. Tocilizumab in combination with corticosteroid and tacrolimus may therefore be a beneficial treatment regimen for lung lesions associated with MCD.