Systemic Cytokine Profiles of CD4+ T Lymphocytes Correlate with Clinical Features and Functional Status in Stable COPD

Aims: To evaluate the expressions of intracellular cytokines in CD4+ T lymphocytes and to investigate the correlation between biomarker expressions and clinical and functional characteristics of stable COPD patients.

Patients and methods: Peripheral blood was collected from 36 COPD patients, and the expression of cytokines (IL-8, IL-13, IL-17, IL-6, IL-2, IL-10, and TNF-α) in T lymphocytes CD4 + was investigated. In addition, lung function, dyspnea symptoms, quality of life, vital signs, body composition, level of physical activity, peripheral muscle strength, and functional capacity were assessed.

Results: Individuals with greater bronchial obstruction present a higher proportion of CD4 + IL-2 + lymphocytes compared to individuals with less severe bronchial obstruction. We found a positive correlation between the expression of the cytokines IL-13, IL-17, IL-6, IL-2, IL-10, and TNF-α in CD4+ T lymphocytes. In addition, we found a positive correlation between CD4+ IL-10+ T lymphocytes and lower limb muscle strength and a negative correlation between CD4+ IL-8+ T lymphocytes and peripheral oxygen saturation and steps per day.

Conclusion: Systemic CD4+IL-2+, IL-8+, and IL-10+ T lymphocytes presented a correlation with clinical characteristics and functional status in stable COPD.