Free IL-18 and IL-33 cytokines in chronic spontaneous urticaria

Cytokine. 2013 Mar;61(3):741-3. doi: 10.1016/j.cyto.2013.01.015. Epub 2013 Feb 19.

Abstract

Overproduction of IL-18 has been described in chronic urticaria. To evaluate free IL-18 and IL-33 in chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU). IL-18, its inhibitor IL-18BP, IL-33 and its soluble receptor ST2 (sST2) were measured (ELISA) in the sera of 73 CSU patients. Free IL-18 was calculated (law of mass action). Autologous serum skin test (ASST) was performed in all patients. Total IL-18, IL-18BP and free IL-18 serum levels were significantly higher in CSU than in controls. IL-18 and IL-18BP increased significantly in both ASST-positive and negative subgroups. Free IL-18 resulted significantly higher in the ASST-negative, but not in the ASST-positive subgroup. No differences in IL-33/sST2 levels were detected between CSU and controls. Increased levels of free IL-18 and IL-18BP, but not IL-33, was detected in CSU. Whether IL-18 up-regulation is a consequence of inflammation or one of the causes of the pathology needs to be addressed.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Chronic Disease
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Intercellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins / metabolism
  • Interleukin-18 / blood*
  • Interleukin-33
  • Interleukins / blood*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Urticaria / blood*
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • IL33 protein, human
  • Intercellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins
  • Interleukin-18
  • Interleukin-33
  • Interleukins
  • interleukin-18 binding protein