摘要
BACKGROUND The connection between inflammatory bowel disease(IBD)and colorectal cancer(CRC)is well-established,as persistent intestinal inflammation plays a substantial role in both disorders.Cytokines may further influence the inflammation and the carcinogenesis process.AIM To compare cytokine patterns of active IBD patients with early and advanced CRC.METHODS Choosing a panel of cytokines crucial for Th17/Treg differentiation and behavior,in colon specimens,as mRNA biomarkers,and their serum protein levels.RESULTS We found a significant difference between higher gene expression of FoxP3,TGFb1,IL-10,and IL-23,and approximately equal level of IL-6 in CRC patients in comparison with IBD patients.After stratification of CRC patients,we found a significant difference in FoxP3,IL-10,IL-23,and IL-17A mRNA in early cases compared to IBD,and IL-23 alone in advanced CRC.The protein levels of the cytokines were significantly higher in CRC patients compared to IBD patients.CONCLUSION Our findings showed that IL-6 upregulation is essential for both IBD and CRC development until the upregulation of other Th17/Treg related genes(TGFb1,IL-10,IL-23,and transcription factor FoxP3)is a crucial primarily for CRC development.The significantly upregulated IL-6 could be a potential drug target for IBD and prevention of CRC development as well.
基金
Supported by the Medical University of Sofia,No.22.2012-2013
Trakia University of Stara Zagora,No.1.2016 and No.2.2017.