Soluble CD163 Levels and CD163+CD14+ Monocyte/Macrophage Counts in Patients with Asthma

Iran J Immunol. 2018 Sep;15(3):239-245. doi: 10.22034/IJI.2018.39393.

Abstract

Background: CD163-expressing macrophages are involved in the inflammatory response in asthma.

Objective: To assess sputum and serum soluble CD163 (sCD163) and cytokine levels in patients with asthma. Further discussed was the difference between sCD163 and other classic inflammatory mediators.

Methods: Sputum was successfully induced in asthma patients (n=85) and healthy controls (n=21). Interleukin (IL)-4, IL-5, IL-1β, IL-8, IL-9, IL-6, and sCD163 levels in sputum were measured. CD163+ monocytes in blood were evaluated using flow cytometry.

Results: Sputum sCD163 level significantly increased in asthma (median: 22.4 pg/ml; IQR, 11.52-42.91), unlike healthy controls (10.54 pg/ml;9.85-23.5; P<0.001). Sputum sCD163 (P=0.020) and serum sCD163 (P=0.032) levels were significantly higher in patients with severe asthma compared to those with mild/moderate asthma. Percentage of CD163+ monocytes in patients with asthma was significantly lower than the controls (P<0.001).

Conclusion: Increased sCD163 levels in sputum are associated with the impairment of lung function.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Antigens, CD / metabolism*
  • Antigens, Differentiation, Myelomonocytic / metabolism*
  • Asthma / immunology*
  • CD163 Antigen
  • Cell Count
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Lipopolysaccharide Receptors / metabolism
  • Lung / metabolism*
  • Lung / pathology
  • Macrophages / immunology*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Monocytes / immunology*
  • Receptors, Cell Surface / metabolism*
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Antigens, CD
  • Antigens, Differentiation, Myelomonocytic
  • CD163 Antigen
  • Lipopolysaccharide Receptors
  • Receptors, Cell Surface