Cytokine and fibrogenic gene expression in the conjunctivas of subjects from a Gambian community where trachoma is endemic

Matthew J Burton; Robin L Bailey; David Jeffries; David C W Mabey; Martin J Holland

doi:10.1128/IAI.72.12.7352-7356.2004

Cytokine and fibrogenic gene expression in the conjunctivas of subjects from a Gambian community where trachoma is endemic

Infect Immun. 2004 Dec;72(12):7352-6. doi: 10.1128/IAI.72.12.7352-7356.2004.

Authors

Matthew J Burton¹, Robin L Bailey, David Jeffries, David C W Mabey, Martin J Holland

Affiliation

¹ International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel St., London WC1E 7HT, United Kingdom. [email protected]

Abstract

The role of immunity in blinding trachoma is unclear. Conjunctival gene expression was measured in a population where trachoma is endemic. Proinflammatory (tumor necrosis factor alpha and interleukin-1beta [IL-1beta]), anti-inflammatory (IL-10), and fibrogenic (matrix metalloprotease 9) gene expression was increased in active trachoma. Markers indicative of T-cell response (gamma interferon, IL-4, IL-12p40, and perforin) were increased when chlamydial infection was present.

Publication types

Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

Child
Collagen Type I / genetics
Conjunctiva / metabolism*
Cytokines / genetics*
Female
Humans
Male
Matrix Metalloproteinase 1 / genetics
Matrix Metalloproteinase 9 / genetics*
RNA, Messenger / analysis
T-Lymphocytes, Cytotoxic / immunology
Trachoma / immunology*
Transforming Growth Factor beta / genetics
Transforming Growth Factor beta2

Substances

Collagen Type I
Cytokines
RNA, Messenger
TGFB2 protein, human
Transforming Growth Factor beta
Transforming Growth Factor beta2
Matrix Metalloproteinase 9
Matrix Metalloproteinase 1