Clinical significance of the CXCL8/CXCR1/R2 signalling axis in patients with invasive breast cancer

The C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 8 (CXCL8)-C-X-C chemokine receptor (CXCR)1/2 signalling axis is among numerous mechanisms which stimulate the immune system to defend against tumour growth and influence the tumour microenvironment to promote tumour growth. This pathway plays an important role in the development of a number of cancers including breast cancer (BC). The aim of the present study was to analyse the levels of the chemokine CXCL8 and its receptors, CXCR1 and CXCR2, in the serum of female patients with invasive BC and to assess the expression of these parameters at the mRNA level, considering molecular subtypes and degrees of cancer malignancy. The study group consisted of 62 patients with histopathologically confirmed invasive BC. The control group consisted of 18 patients with histopathologically confirmed fibroadenoma, a benign breast tumour. The levels of CXCL8, CXCR1 and CXCR2 were determined by sandwich ELISA using the CLOUD-CLONE ELISA kit. CXCL8, CXCR1 and CXCR2 transcript levels were analysed using reverse transcription-quantitative PCR. Results showed that serum CXCL8 levels in female patients with invasive BC were significantly higher compared with those in the control group (P<0.05). In addition, significantly elevated CXCR1 levels were observed in luminal B human epidermal growth factor receptor 2+ carcinoma compared with those in the control group. Analysis of CXCL8 in the serum of female patients with BC showed a statistically significant difference between clinical stage G1 and G2 (P<0.05), G2 and G3 (P<0.01), and G1 and G3 (P<0.0001). On the other hand, the analysis of CXCR1 and CXCR2 levels in the serum of the patients revealed a statistically significant difference between G2 and G3 (P<0.05). The current study showed that abnormalities in the immune response involving the CXCL8-CXCR1/2 signalling axis in patients with invasive BC are involved in the development of these tumours. Moreover, the demonstrated severity of changes occurring at protein level may suggest the potential usefulness of their determination as potential diagnostic markers in the clinic.

Sensitivity and Specificity of Selected Biomarkers and Their Combinations in the Diagnosis of Ovarian Cancer

One of the greatest challenges in modern gynecological oncology is ovarian cancer. Despite the numerous studies currently being conducted, it is still sometimes detected at late clinical stages, where the prognosis is unfavorable. One significant contributing factor is the absence of sensitive and specific parameters that could aid in early diagnosis. An ideal screening test, in view of the low incidence of ovarian cancer, should have a sensitivity of greater than 75% and a specificity of at least 99.6%. To enhance sensitivity and specificity, diagnostic panels are being created by combining individual markers. The drive to develop better screening tests for ovarian cancer focuses on modern diagnostic methods based on molecular testing, which in turn aims to find increasingly effective biomarkers. Currently, researchers' efforts are focused on the search for a complementary parameter to those most commonly used that would satisfactorily enhance the sensitivity and specificity of assays. Several biomarkers, including microRNA molecules, autoantibodies, cDNA, adipocytokines, and galectins, are currently being investigated by researchers. This article reviews recent studies comparing the sensitivity and specificity of selected parameters used alone and in combination to increase detection of ovarian cancer at an early stage.

Selected Flavonols Targeting Cell Death Pathways in Cancer Therapy: The Latest Achievements in Research on Apoptosis, Autophagy, Necroptosis, Pyroptosis, Ferroptosis, and Cuproptosis

The complex and multi-stage processes of carcinogenesis are accompanied by a number of phenomena related to the potential involvement of various chemopreventive factors, which include, among others, compounds of natural origin such as flavonols. The use of flavonols is not only promising but also a recognized strategy for cancer treatment. The chemopreventive impact of flavonols on cancer arises from their ability to act as antioxidants, impede proliferation, promote cell death, inhibit angiogenesis, and regulate the immune system through involvement in diverse forms of cellular death. So far, the molecular mechanisms underlying the regulation of apoptosis, autophagy, necroptosis, pyroptosis, ferroptosis, and cuproptosis occurring with the participation of flavonols have remained incompletely elucidated, and the results of the studies carried out so far are ambiguous. For this reason, one of the therapeutic goals is to initiate the death of altered cells through the use of quercetin, kaempferol, myricetin, isorhamnetin, galangin, fisetin, and morin. This article offers an extensive overview of recent research on these compounds, focusing particularly on their role in combating cancer and elucidating the molecular mechanisms governing apoptosis, autophagy, necroptosis, pyroptosis, ferroptosis, and cuproptosis. Assessment of the mechanisms underlying the anticancer effects of compounds in therapy targeting various types of cell death pathways may prove useful in developing new therapeutic regimens and counteracting resistance to previously used treatments.

Evaluation of potential prevalence of onconeural antibodies in women with breast cancer

OBJECTIVE

Aim: To analyse onconeural antibodies in the blood serum of breast cancer patients without neurological symptoms..

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Materials and Methods: The study included 48 women with breast cancer. Paraneoplastic Neurologic Syndromes 12 Ag (IgG) Euroline by EUROIMMUN test was used to determine onconeural antibodies: anti-Hu, anti-Yo, anti-Ri, anti-CV2, anti-Ma/anti-Ta, anti-amphiphysin, anti-recoverin, anti-SOX1, anti-tytin, anti-zic4, anti-GAD65 and anti-Tr (DNER).

RESULTS

Results: The conducted analysis revealed the presence of onconeural antibodies such as: anti-recoverin, anti-CV2, anti-Zic4, anti-SOX1, anti-MA2/Ta and antititin in blood serum of women with breast cancer.

CONCLUSION

Conclusions: Further analysis may allow the assessment of the possible clinical usefulness of these determinations.

Selected Flavonols in Breast and Gynecological Cancer: A Systematic Review

The consumption of foods that are rich in phenolic compounds has chemopreventive effects on many cancers, including breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and endometrial cancer. A wide spectrum of their health-promoting properties such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer activities, has been demonstrated. This paper analyzes the mechanisms of the anticancer action of selected common flavonols, including kemferol, myricetin, quercetin, fisetin, galangin, isorhamnetin, and morin, in preclinical studies, with particular emphasis on in vitro studies in gynecological cancers and breast cancer. In the future, these compounds may find applications in the prevention and treatment of gynecological cancers and breast cancer, but this requires further, more advanced research.

MicroRNAs as Potential Biomarkers in Gynecological Cancers

MicroRNAs are non-coding transcripts that, thanks to the ability to regulate the mRNA of target genes, can affect the expression of genes encoding tumor suppressors and oncogenes. They can control many important cellular processes, including apoptosis, differentiation, growth, division, and metabolism. Therefore, miRNAs play an important role in the development of many cancers, including gynecological cancers. Ovarian cancer, endometrial cancer, cervical cancer, and vulvar cancer are the most common cancers in women and are a frequent cause of death. The heterogeneity of the pathogenesis of these gynecological diseases makes the diagnostic process a significant obstacle for modern medicine. To date, many studies have been carried out, in which particular attention has been paid to the molecular pathomechanism of these diseases, with particular emphasis on miRNAs. To date, the changed profile of many miRNAs, which influenced the promotion of proliferation, migration, invasion processes and the simultaneous inhibition of programmed cell death, has been proven many times. Detailed understanding of the molecular effects of miRNAs in the above-mentioned gynecological cancers will enable the development of potential predictive and prognostic biomarkers, as well as the optimization of the diagnostic process.

Evaluation of the Potential Diagnostic Utility of the Determination of Selected Immunological and Molecular Parameters in Patients with Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer is one of the most serious challenges in modern gynaecological oncology. Due to its non-specific symptoms and the lack of an effective screening procedure to detect the disease at an early stage, ovarian cancer is still marked by a high mortality rate among women. For this reason, a great deal of research is being carried out to find new markers that can be used in the detection of ovarian cancer to improve early diagnosis and survival rates of women with ovarian cancer. Our study focuses on presenting the currently used diagnostic markers and the latest selected immunological and molecular parameters being currently investigated for their potential use in the development of new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.

The Role of Selected Adipocytokines in Ovarian Cancer and Endometrial Cancer

Due to their multidirectional influence, adipocytokines are currently the subject of numerous intensive studies. Significant impact applies to many processes, both physiological and pathological. Moreover, the role of adipocytokines in carcinogenesis seems particularly interesting and not fully understood. For this reason, ongoing research focuses on the role of these compounds in the network of interactions in the tumor microenvironment. Particular attention should be drawn to cancers that remain challenging for modern gynecological oncology-ovarian and endometrial cancer. This paper presents the role of selected adipocytokines, including leptin, adiponectin, visfatin, resistin, apelin, chemerin, omentin and vaspin in cancer, with a particular focus on ovarian and endometrial cancer, and their potential clinical relevance.

Survivin expression at the mRNA level in tumors and the protein concentration in the serum and peritoneal fluid in patients with serous ovarian tumors

OBJECTIVES

Ovarian cancer is one of the gynecological cancers that have the worst prognosis. The expression of the proteins from the IAP family (inhibitor of apoptosis protein), including survivin, is observed in many types of cancer. The aim of the study was to evaluate survivin at the mRNA level in tumors and the protein concentration in the serum and peritoneal fluid of patients with serous ovarian cancer in order to assess the relationship between the concentration of survivin and the histological subtypes of cancer.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study group consisted of 55 women, including patients with serous ovarian cancer (n = 30, nine low-grade serous carcinoma LGSC, 21 high-grade serous carcinoma HGSC), serous cysts (n = 10) and the control group (n = 15). The concentration of protein in the peritoneal fluid and serum was assessed using ELISA tests. The expression of survivin gene BIRC5 in the tumors was assessed using the RT-qPCR method.

RESULTS

The data that was obtained indicated that the concentration of survivin was higher in the serum of the women with serous ovarian cancer compared those that had benign tumors (p < 0.05) and the control group (p < 0.001). The survivin concentration was also higher in both the serum and peritoneal fluid in the HGSC group compared to the LGSC group (p < 0.001). The mRNA level was highest in the HGSC group, and there was a statistically significant difference compared to those in the benign tumor group and HGSC group ( p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The observed changes prove that the expression level increases significantly in HGSC in both the protein and mRNA levels. Based on these findings, it can be assumed that assessing this parameter could be a useful additional indicator of the progression and differentiation of this type of cancer. However, this requires further research in a larger group of patients and possibly in other types of ovarian cancer.

Analysis of CXCL8 and its receptors CXCR1/CXCR2 at the mRNA level in neoplastic tissue, as well as in serum and peritoneal fluid in patients with ovarian cance

Understanding the relationship between the coexistence of inflammatory and neoplastic processes in ovarian cancer, particularly those involving chemokines and their receptors, may help to elucidate the involvement of the studied parameters in tumor pathogenesis and could lead to improved clinical applications. Therefore, the present study aimed to analyze the levels of C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 8 (CXCL8), and its receptors C-X-C chemokine receptor (CXCR)1 and CXCR2, in the serum and peritoneal fluid of women with ovarian cancer, and to evaluate the association between the expression of these parameters in tumor tissue and patient characteristics, particularly the degree of histological differentiation. The study group included women with ovarian cancer diagnosed with serous cystadenocarcinoma International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics stage IIIc and a control group, which consisted of women who were diagnosed with a benign lesion (serous cystadenoma). The transcript levels of CXCL8, CXCR1 and CXCR2 were evaluated using reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). The quantitative analysis was carried out using the LightCycler^® 480 System and GoTaq^® 1-Step RT-qPCR System, according to the manufacturers' instructions. The concentration of CXCL8 in serum and peritoneal fluid was determined using a Human Interleukin-8 ELISA kit, and the concentrations of CXCR1 and CXCR2 were determined using the CLOUD-CLONE ELISA kit. Local and systemic disturbances in immune and inflammatory responses involving the CXCL8 chemokine and its receptors indicated the involvement of these studied parameters in the pathogenesis of ovarian cancer. Immunoregulation of the CXCL8-CXCR1 system may influence the course of the inflammatory process accompanying ovarian cancer development, which may result in the identification of novel clinical applications; however, further studies are required.

Analysis of the concentration of CXCL8 chemokine and its CXCR1 and CXCR2 receptors in peritoneal fluid of women with endometriosis

Endometriosis is an inflammatory estrogen-dependent gynecological disease characterized by the presence of endometrial tissue outside the uterine cavity. An important role in the pathogenesis of this disease is played by disorders of the immune system involving chemokines and their receptors, including the CXCL8-CXCR1/ 2 system.

AIM

The aim of the study was to assess the concentration of the CXCL8 chemokine and its CXCR1 and CXCR2 receptors in the peritoneal fluid of women with endometriosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study included 32 women aged 21 to 47 years with diagnosed endometriosis and a control group of 8 healthy women aged 21 to 40 years. The material for the research was the peritoneal fluid collected during the laparoscopic procedure. The concentration of chemokines was determined by ELISA tests.

RESULTS

The conducted studies showed that the concentration of the CXCL8 chemokine was significantly higher in the peritoneal fluid of the studied women and depended on the clinical advancement of the disease.

CONCLUSIONS

Changes in the concentration of the CXCL8 chemokine in the peritoneal fluid of women with endometriosis may indicate impaired immune response and indicate an inflammatory process within the peritoneal cavity. The demonstrated relationship between the concentration of CXCL8 and the stages of clinical advancement indicates a significant role of this chemokine in the development of the disease.

The role of galectins‑1, 3, 7, 8 and 9 as potential diagnostic and therapeutic markers in ovarian cancer (Review)

The incidence of ovarian cancer is increasing, particularly throughout the highly developed countries, while this cancer type remains a major diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. The currently poorly recognized lectins called galectins have various roles in interactions occurring in the tumor microenvironment. Galectins are involved in tumor-associated processes, including the promotion of growth, adhesion, angiogenesis and survival of tumor cells. Results of research studies performed so far point to a complex role of galectins-1, 3, −7, −8 and −9 in carcinogenesis of ovarian cancer and elucidation of the mechanisms may contribute to novel forms of therapies targeting the proteins. In particular, it appears important to recognize the reasons for changes in expression of galectins. Galectins also appear to be a useful diagnostic and prognostic tool to evaluate tumor progression or the efficacy of therapies in patients with ovarian cancer, which requires further study.

The Role of Extracellular Matrix Proteins in Breast Cancer

The extracellular matrix is a structure composed of many molecules, including fibrillar (types I, II, III, V, XI, XXIV, XXVII) and non-fibrillar collagens (mainly basement membrane collagens: types IV, VIII, X), non-collagenous glycoproteins (elastin, laminin, fibronectin, thrombospondin, tenascin, osteopontin, osteonectin, entactin, periostin) embedded in a gel of negatively charged water-retaining glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) such as non-sulfated hyaluronic acid (HA) and sulfated GAGs which are linked to a core protein to form proteoglycans (PGs). This highly dynamic molecular network provides critical biochemical and biomechanical cues that mediate the cell–cell and cell–matrix interactions, influence cell growth, migration and differentiation and serve as a reservoir of cytokines and growth factors’ action. The breakdown of normal ECM and its replacement with tumor ECM modulate the tumor microenvironment (TME) composition and is an essential part of tumorigenesis and metastasis, acting as key driver for malignant progression. Abnormal ECM also deregulate behavior of stromal cells as well as facilitating tumor-associated angiogenesis and inflammation. Thus, the tumor matrix modulates each of the classically defined hallmarks of cancer promoting the growth, survival and invasion of the cancer. Moreover, various ECM-derived components modulate the immune response affecting T cells, tumor-associated macrophages (TAM), dendritic cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF). This review article considers the role that extracellular matrix play in breast cancer. Determining the detailed connections between the ECM and cellular processes has helped to identify novel disease markers and therapeutic targets.

The presence of anti-leucocyte antibodies in the plasma of convalescent women after SARS-CoV-2 infection as a reason for disqualification for plasma therapy - analysis based on a literature review

According to the data from November 29 2020, the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus was responsible for 61 866 635 cases of infections and 1 448 990 deaths worldwide, and the number is still growing rapidly. The main problem is the rapid increase in the number of patients with pneumonia complicated by respiratory failure. In the treatment of COVID- 19 patients, a significant effect of convalescent plasma (CP) therapy from convalescent patients with SARS-CoV-2 IgG neutralizing antibodies is indicated. After this procedure, the total duration of the infection was shortened and the clinical condition improved faster than in patients who did not receive this form of therapy. The aim of the study was to explain the cause disqualifying women with anti-leucocyte anitibodies as CP plasma donors for COVID-19 patients. However, according to the literature, 2% of patients who received plasma from convalescents developed Transfusion Related Acute Lung Injury (TRALI). The most common causes of TRALI are anti-leukocyte antibodies directed against Human Leukocyte Antigens (HLA) class I and II and against Human Neutrophil Antigens (HNA). Therefore, patients with COVID-19 may only be transfused with plasma from convalescent women with a history of pregnancy after testing negative for anti-leucocyte antibodies in the pre-plasmapheresis blood sample.

Evaluation of the Potential Diagnostic Utility of the Determination of Selected Caspases-Markers Involved in the Regulation of Apoptosis-In Patients with Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer remains a major diagnostic and therapeutic problem in modern gynecological oncology. For this reason, research which focuses on the search for new diagnostic markers and the assessment of their possible usefulness in clinical practice is still being conducted. The aim of this study was to evaluate serum levels of caspase-3, caspase-8, and caspase-9 in women with ovarian cancer. Patients with ovarian serous cystadenoma (Cystadenoma serosum) and papillary serous cystadenocarcinoma (Cystadenocarcinoma papillare serosum IIIC) were included in the study, as well as healthy women who constituted the control group. The results of the study revealed a statistically significantly decreased mean serum levels of caspase-3, caspase-8, and caspase-9 in women with ovarian cancer as compared to the control group (p ˂ 0.001), which indicates the involvement of the studied parameters in immune system disturbances occurring in the process of apoptosis by the extrinsic and intrinsic pathway and may be one of the mechanisms of immunosuppression accompanying these tumors. Determination of serum levels of examined caspases and CA 125 antigen in women with ovarian cancer in combination with other markers may prove useful in the future in the diagnosis of ovarian cancer, but this requires further studies.

The immune complex p53 protein/anti-p53 autoantibodies in the pathogenesis of ovarian serous carcinoma

OBJECTIVES

The tests conducted were intended to analyze the concentration of p53 protein and anti-p53 autoantibodies in serum of women with ovarian tumours.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study included patients with diagnosed ovarian cancer: Cystadenoma serosum or Cystadenocarcinoma papillare serosum at IIIc stage (including 10 women who had G1, 14 women who had G2 and 30 women who had G3 staging). Concentrations of parameters were measured by ELISA.

RESULTS

The analysis of the obtained results showed statistical significance between the concentration of p53 protein depending on the degree of differentiation of G1 and G3 (p < 0.001) and anti-p53 autoantibodies depending on the degree of differentiation of G1 and G2 (p < 0.05) as well as G2 and G3 (p < 0.01). In addition, the determined p53/anti-p53 autoantibodies ratio was only significant between G1 and G2 (p < 0.05), as was the assessment of the percentage of the tested parameters in the immune complex.

CONCLUSIONS

Immune system disorders involving the p53 protein and anti-p53 autoantibodies may be one of the immune mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of ovarian serous cancer.

The Delicate Balance between the Good and the Bad IL-1 Proinflammatory Effects in Endometriosis

Background:

Endometriosis is an inflammatory gynaecological disease with an associated chronic inflammation. Interleukin(IL)-1 is one of the most important immune and proinflammatory factors, produced mainly by monocytes and macrophages. Studies indicate the role of the cytokine from IL-1 family in endometrium-related disorders, particularly in endometriosis.

Methods:

The information about the impact of cytokine from IL-1 cytokine family on the pathogenesis and development of endometriosis was obtained with an electronic literature search based on the PubMed and Medline databases, spanning the period of January 1950 to July 2017 and includes associated references in the published studies.

Results:

The impairment of the IL-1 family cytokine-network may lead to changes in the activation of immune system in the peritoneal cavity of women with endometriosis. The aberrant ectopic endometrial cell properties of adhesion, implantation and proliferation may be the result of a reduced suppressive capacity controlling the IL-1. The imbalance between IL-1α, pro-IL-1β, mature IL-1β and sIL-1R2 and sIL-1RAcP in the peritoneal fluid and serum of women with endometriosis may be linked to the ability of transforming an acute inflammation into a chronic one. Despite the fact that peritoneal macrophages secrete more antiinflammatory IL-1Ra and less proinflammatory IL-1 in the peritoneal cavity in affected women, the inflammation still develops.

Conclusions:

This observation clearly suggested a significant inadequacy in the specific regulatory mechanisms of IL-1 activity at the peritoneal cavity level. The imbalance between all studied cytokines in endometriosis may escalate peritoneal inflammation and, in consequence, develop endometriosis.

Assessment of concentrations of sTRAIL ligand and its receptors sTRAIL-R1 and sTRAIL-R2 - markers monitoring the course of the extrinsic pathway of apoptosis induction: potential application in ovarian cancer diagnostics

INTRODUCTION

TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) together with its receptors are involved in activation of the extrinsic pathway of apoptosis. Due to the special role of the apoptosis pathway in pathogenesis of ovarian cancers, the aim of the study was to assess concentrations of sTRAIL, sTRAIL-R1 and sTRAIL-R2 in serum of affected women.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study group included 85 women with diagnosed ovarian tumors: 35 women with ovarian serous cystadenoma, 15 women with ovarian teratoma and 35 women with serous cystadenocarcinoma. The control group consisted of 30 healthy women. Concentrations of studied parameters were measured by ELISA methods.

RESULTS

Serum levels of all studied parameters were higher in serum of women with ovarian tumors than in the controls, but their concentrations varied depending on the clinical diagnosis. The highest concentration of TRAIL was found in serum of women with ovarian cancer, the highest sTRAIL-R1 level in serum of women with ovarian mature teratoma, and the highest sTRAIL-R2 level in serum of women with ovarian serous cystadenoma.

CONCLUSIONS

The state of immunosuppression accompanying neoplastic disease depends on the extrinsic pathway of apoptosis induction in the TRAIL/TRAIL-R system. Determination of TRAIL-R1 and TRAIL-R2 levels may prove to be useful in ovarian tumor differential diagnostics, which requires further research.

Effect of Th1/Th2 cytokine administration on proinflammatory SKOV-3 cell activation

INTRODUCTION

Interleukin(IL)-1β, IL-6 and IL-12 might associate with inflammatory processes in a tumor progression and create a specific microenvironment for tumor growth. The aim of the study was to assess whether the Th1 and Th2 type cytokines, such as IL-2 and IL-10, affect ovarian carcinoma continuous cell line (SKOV-3) pro-inflammatory activation.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

SKOV-3 ovarian cells and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were stimulated by IL-2 and IL-10. Additionally, SKOV-3 ovarian cells and PBMCs were co-cultured together. Proinflammatory activation of cancer cells was evaluated by measurement of IL-1β and IL-6 levels in culture fluid after 72 h of incubation.

RESULTS

SKOV-3 cells and PBMCs secreted IL-1β and IL-6. After stimulation by IL-2 and IL-10, secretion of studied parameters was changed in a dose-dependent manner. The addition of a higher IL-2 level gave rise to an increase of IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-12 secretion in SKOV-3 cells. Stimulation by IL-10 increased only IL-1β secretion in SKOV-3 cells. However, IL-6 secretion decreased after stimulation with 25 ng/ml IL-10. Activatory effects of IL-2 and inhibitory effects of IL-10 in co-culture of SKOV-3 and PBMCs were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggested that Th1/Th2 type of cytokines might influence pro-inflammatory activation of SKOV-3 ovarian cells. Co-cultures of SKOV-3 and PBMCs showed significant changes in cross-talk between cancer and immune cells.

Association of the Precursor of Interleukin-1β and Peritoneal Inflammation-Role in Pathogenesis of Endometriosis

BACKGROUND

The most important proinflammatory cytokine is interleukin (IL)-1β, however its precursor, prointerleukin-1β (proIL-1β), can also potentiate inflammatory state. The aim of this study was to explore the involvement of proIL-1β in pathogenesis of endometriosis. For this purpose, we evaluated concentrations of proIL-1β, IL-1β, and soluble IL-1 receptor type 2 (sIL-1R2) in peritoneal fluid (PF) and macrophage culture medium of women with endometriosis.

METHODS

PF from 55 women with and without endometriosis was collected during laparoscopy. Peritoneal macrophages were cultured in basal and stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) conditions. Concentrations of cytokines were measured with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA).

RESULTS

PF proIL-1β and IL-1β levels in endometriosis women were higher than in the control. Higher basal and stimulated macrophage secretion of cytokines in endometriosis patients than in the control was observed. However, in endometriosis, there was a higher level of proIL-1β than for the mature molecule. Additionally, lower PF and macrophages culture medium sIL-1R2 levels were observed in women with endometriosis.

CONCLUSIONS

Abnormal proIL-1β concentration in PF and higher macrophage secretion can escalate peritoneal inflammation and endometriosis formation. The results are presented as a total IL-1β, which is a sum of proIL-1β  and IL-1β, and we believe that it reflects the actual cytokine production. The imbalance among all studied cytokines in endometriosis may be linked with an ability to transform acute inflammation to the chronic inflammation.

Cytotoxic reaction mediators: granzymes A and B in women with ovarian cancer

The purpose of this work was the assessment of cytotoxic reaction mediators - granzymes A and B in the serum of women with ovarian tumors. The study included 120 women with proven ovarian tumors. The control group consisted of 60 healthy women in whom no pathological changes within the reproductive system were detected. Concentrations of granzymes A and B were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent (ELISA) assay. The highest concentrations of the studied parameters were observed in serum of women with ovarian cancer. Moreover, the concentrations of granzymes A and B in patients with ovarian cancer were substantially increased in comparison to concentrations in patients with ovarian cystadenomas (P < 0.0001) or ovarian teratomas (P < 0.0001).

Higher serum levels of tumour necrosis factor and its soluble receptors are associated with ovarian tumours

INTRODUCTION

Tumour necrosis factor (TNF) and its soluble receptors type 1 (sTNF-R1) and type 2 (sTNF-R2) have been suggested as key mediators between apoptosis and cancer cell progression. The aim was to examine concentrations of the parameters in the serum of women with ovarian tumour and in the fluid from ovarian cysts of women with serous cystadenoma.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study included 125 women with ovarian tumours. As a control, sera were obtained from 70 healthy female volunteers. Concentrations of TNF, sTNF-R1 and sTNF-R2 were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

RESULTS

Significant increases of TNF, sTNF-R1 and sTNF-R2 were found in the serum of women with ovarian tumour in comparison to the control (p < 0.0001). The highest levels of all studied parameters were observed in women with ovarian cancer. In the ovarian cyst fluid the concentrations of the evaluated parameters increased significantly as compared to the serum (p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Our data showed changes in regulatory mechanisms of apoptosis in women with ovarian tumours which are associated with increased concentrations of all studied factors. Serum estimated TNF and especially sTNF-R may be used as complementary diagnostic markers in patients with ovarian tumours.

Imbalance in cytokines from interleukin-1 family - role in pathogenesis of endometriosis

PROBLEM

To assess whether interleukin (IL)-1beta, IL-18 and interleukin-1 converting enzyme (ICE) are involved in the pathogenesis of endometriosis.

METHOD OF STUDY

Peritoneal fluid (PF) was obtained from 85 women with and without endometriosis. Peritoneal macrophages were cultured and the culture media collected. IL-1beta, IL-18 and ICE levels were measured by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

RESULTS

Levels of IL-1beta and ICE in PF of women with endometriosis were higher than those in the control group. However, PF level of IL-18 was significantly lower in the study group than in the controls. Higher secretion of IL-1beta by peritoneal macrophages and lower IL-18 and ICE in endometriosis patients than in control were observed. Following lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation, the macrophages secreted more IL-1beta, IL-18 and ICE in all groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The results pointed to impairment of the secretion of the IL-1 cytokine family in endometriosis. Invalid IL-1beta and IL-18 maturation by ICE may be an important pathogenic factor in endometriosis.

[Systemic lupus erythematosus--still current clinical and diagnostic problem]

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a common autoimmune disease of unknown etiology that frequently affects women of childbearing age. SLE is associated with impairments in immune system, which is a consequence of increased production of various autoantibodies. This disease is still a major diagnostic and therapeutic problem. Some hope to explain the complex etiopathogenesis of the disease creates a monitoring function of the immune system. A chance for patients are biologically targeted therapies that affect the critical stages of the disease and autoimmune inflammatory processes.

[Changes in calprotectin concentration--inflammation marker in serum of women with gynecological cancer]

OBJECTIVES

Malignant tumors of the ovary and uterus remain to be a diagnostic and therapeutic problem in Poland, mainly due to the lack of effective diagnosis of their early stages. There is a relation between an impaired immune system, especially the process of inflammation and the pathogenesis of these tumors. The aim of the study was to assess the concentration of calprotectin--a inflammation marker in the serum of women with ovarian or uterine cancer.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study group included 96 women, aged 21 to 72 (mean age: 46.7 +/- 13.6 years) with the diagnosed and histologically confirmed ovarian or uterine tumor The control group consisted of 30 women aged 24-60 (mean age 45.6 +/- 8.9 years), showing no pathological disorders or any inflammations of the reproductive system. The concentration of calprotectin was evaluated with the use of the immunoenzymatic method ELISA using the Calprotectin ELISA (serum) kit by DRG Instruments (Germany).

RESULTS

In serum of women with tumors the calprotectin level was significantly higher comparing to the control group (p < 0.0001). The highest calprotectin levels in women with ovarian cancer (mean +/- SD: 231.84 +/- 13.74 ng/ ml) and uterine cancer (mean +/- SD: 166.23 +/- 13.36 ng/ml) were observed and were significantly higher comparing to women with ovarian serous adenomas (mean +/- SD: 72.60 +/- 9.75 ng/ml) and fibroids of the uterus (mean +/- SD: 72.31 +/- 9.19 ng/ml) (p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

In women with ovarian and uterine cancer a significant increase in the concentration of calprotectin was observed, suggesting an inflammatory process that accompanies cancer. These changes are especially pronounced in women with cancer which probably indicates autocrine production of the protein by cancer cells. Estimation of the parameter examined in the serum may improve differential diagnosis of malignant and benign ovarian and uterine cancers, however it requires further investigation.

[Changes in concentrations of tumor necrosis factor TNF and its soluble receptors type 1 (sTNF-r1) and type 2 (sTNF-R2) in serum of patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction]

INTRODUCTION

Impairments of apoptosis process, called programmed cell death, are the basis of pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease, including myocardial infarction. The aim of our study was to estimation dynamic changes of Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF) and soluble receptors for TNF: type 1 (sTNF-R1) and type 2 (sTNF-R2) levels in serum of patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study group consisted of 70 patients aged 42 to 75 (mean 58.3 +/- 7.6 years) with the confirmed first episode of the ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction. The analyzed material was blood obtained from patients at fourth time: I. - the time of admission, II. - after 12 hour, III. - after 24 hour and IV. - on 5th day. Serum TNF, sTNF-R1 and sTNF-R2 levels were performed with the use of the immunoenzymatic method ELISA.

RESULTS

The highest concentrations of TNF, sTNF-R1 and sTNF-R2 at a time of admission were observed. In the next examination dates level of studied parameters decreased: after 12 hours, after 24 hours and on 5th day.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with myocardial infarction were observed intensify of apoptosis process, which associated with increased concentration of TNF, sTNF-R1 and sTNF-R2. The measurement of studied parameters might be usefulin monitoring of course myocardial infarction, which need more examinations.

[Concentration of soluble ligand for receptor CD30 (sCD30L)--marker of apoptosis in women with ovarian tumor]

OBJECTIVES

Impairments of apoptosis processes are the basis of pathogenesis of many diseases, including ovarian tumors. The aim of the study was to evaluated the concentration of soluble ligand for receptor CD30 (sCD30L)--marker of apoptosis in women with ovarian tumor.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study comprised 80 women, aged from 21 to 62, and included 30 patients with Cystadenocarcinoma serosum la, 35 with Cystadenoma serosum and 15 women with Teratoma maturum. The control group consisted of 30 healthy women, aged 24 to 57, with no evidence of pathological disorders in the reproductive system. The concentration of sCD30L in the serum of all studied women and in the fluid of ovarian cyst of women with cystadenoma serous were measured by immunoenzymatic method ELISA.

RESULTS

The highest level of sCD30L was observed in the serum of women with ovarian cancer and it was significantly higher when compared to the concentration in the serum of women with cystadenoma serous and teratoma maturum of the ovary (p < 0.0001). In the fluid of ovarian cyst, the concentration of this marker was significantly higher in comparison with the level in the serum (p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

In women with ovarian tumors we observed impairments of the apoptosis process, which is associated with an increased concentration of sCD30L in the serum. These changes are more intense in women with ovarian cancer. Higher level of the study parameter in the fluid of ovarian cyst is associated with the local immune response suppression.

[Concetration of anticardiolipin antybodies in peritonel fluid and in fluid from lymphocytes culture in women with endometriosis]

AIM

The aim of our work was to study both the concentration of anticardiolipin antibodies (aCL) in peritoneal fluid in women with endometriosis and to examine peritoneal lymphocyte ability to produce anticardiolipin antibodies.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Study group included 30 women with endometriosis. The clinical stages of the disease were assessed by the revised American Fertility Society (rAFS) classification. Reference group included fifteen healthy women, with excluded endometriosis and other pathological disorders within the pelvis. The concentration of aCL in the peritoneal fluid and in fluid from lymphocyte culture was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent ELISA assay.

RESULTS

Statistical analysis showed significantly increased mean concentration of aCL in peritoneal fluid in women with endometriosis compared to women from the reference group (p<0.0001). The concentration of aCL in fluid from lymphocyte culture was also significantly higher in samples from women with endometriosis than from the reference group (p<0.0001). The highest mean levels of aCL in peritoneal fluid and in fluid from lymphocyte culture were observed in samples from women with stage I of the disease.

CONCLUSIONS

An increased level of anticardiolipin antibodies in peritoneal fluid in women with endometriosis and increased antibodies production by lymphocytes may suggest an impairment of humoral immunity and its intensification in the early stages of the disease.

[Concentration of soluble Fas receptor (sFas) in serum of patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction]

INTRODUCTION

Impairments ofapoptosis process, called programmed cell death, are the basis of pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease, including myocardial infarction. The aim of our study was to evaluated concentration of soluble receptor Fas (sFas)--marker ofapoptosis--in serum of patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study group consisted of 70 patients aged 42 to 75 (mean 58.3 +/- 7.6 years) with the confirmed first episode of the ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction. The analyzed material was blood obtained from patients at fourth time: I. the time of admission, II. after 12 hour, III. after 24 hour and IV. on 5th day. The concentrations of the serum sFas was performed with the use of the immunoenzymatic method ELISA using commercial kits Human sAPO-1/Fas ELISA, Bender MedSystems Diagnostics GmbH, Austria. The sensitivity of the kit was 13.2 pg/ml.

RESULTS

Concentration of sFas at a time of admission was the highest, among 50.30 and 68.70 pg/ml (mean: 58.73 +/- 5.63 pg/ml). After 12 h, the studied parameter level was significantly lower in comparison with sFas level in admission (p < 0.001), after 24 h (p < 0.0001) and on discharge from hospital (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with myocardial infarction were observed intensify of apoptosis process, which associated with increased concentration of soluble Fas receptor. The measurement of sFas might be useful in monitoring of course myocardial infarction, which need more examinations.

[Monocyte activity after stimulation by serum of women with endometriosis]

OBJECTIVES

Impairments of immune system play an important role in the development and pathogenesis of endometriosis. In affected women peritoneal macrophages are excessively activated, which is visible in an increased synthesis and release of macrophage-derived cytokines and growth factors. Monocytes are precursors of those cells in peripheral blood. The aim of the study was to evaluate the activity of monocyte from a healthy person, after stimulation by serum of women with endometriosis in cell culture conditions. The indicator of monocyte activity was the concentration of neopterin (NPT), produced by those cells.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Twenty nine women with endometriosis (mean age: 28.7+/-4.5 years) were included into this study. Among them were 18 women with moderate endometriosis (I and II stages according to AFS) and 11 women with advanced stages of the disease (III and IV stages according to AFS). Reference group consisted of fifteen healthy women (mean age: 27.4+/-5.3 years), with excluded endometriosis and other pathological disorders within the pelvis. Monocytes used in the study were isolated from peripheral blood of a healthy male and serum of women with endometriosis and control group. Monocytes were cultured in attendance of 15% and 30% serum of studied women. The concentration of NPT in the supernatants of culture was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent ELISA assay.

RESULTS

The serum of women with endometriosis causes an increased concentration of NPT in supernatants, when comparing with serum of healthy women (p<0. 0001). The highest concentration was observed after stimulation by serum of women with advanced endometriosis.

CONCLUSIONS

Serum of women with endometriosis can have an effect on monocyte activity, which is displayed in the increased synthesis and secreted of NPT.

Levels of complement components iC3b, C3c, C4, and SC5b-9 in peritoneal fluid and serum of infertile women with endometriosis

OBJECTIVE

To assess whether complement components iC3b, C3c, C4, and SC5b-9 may be involved in the pathogenesis of endometriosis.

DESIGN

Prospective, experimental trial.

SETTING

Medical university.

PATIENT(S)

112 women infertile women undergoing laparoscopy.

INTERVENTION(S)

Venipuncture and laparoscopic peritoneal fluid collection.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S)

Peritoneal fluid and serum iC3b, C3c, C4, and SC5b-9 levels were measured by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method.

RESULT(S)

Higher levels of C3c, C4, and SC5b-9 complement components were found in the serum compared with the peritoneal fluid, but the levels of iC3b were higher in the peritoneal fluid. We observed higher concentrations of C3c, C4, and SC5b-9 in the peritoneal fluid and serum of women with endometriosis compared with healthy women. However, the levels of iC3b in both peritoneal fluid and serum were statistically significantly lower than in the control group.

CONCLUSION(S)

The impairment of the mechanisms involved in the regulation of activation of complement system may be an important factor in the pathogenesis of endometriosis and endometriosis-associated infertility.

Soluble Fas receptor and soluble Fas ligand in the serum of women with uterine tumors

It is commonly accepted that apoptosis plays an important role in the death of normal and neoplastic cells. Related proteins and their receptors on cell surfaces regulate apoptosis. One of the best-characterized systems is the Fas-Fas ligand system. The aim of the study was to examine the concentrations of soluble Fas receptor (sFas) and the soluble ligand for the Fas receptor (sFasL) in serum of women with uterine tumors. The study included 42 women with uterine tumors. As a normal control, sera were obtained from 20 healthy female volunteers. The concentrations of sFas and sFasL in serum were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay ELISA. Significant increases of the mean value of sFas and sFasL were found in the serum of women with uterine tumor compared to the control group (p < 0.0001). The mean levels of these parameters increased in consecutive stages of the clinical extent of the uterine cancer (I-III). The lowest concentration was observed in women with stage I and the highest in women with stage III of clinical extent according to FIGO. Apoptosis that appears to occur in the cancerous cells of malignant uterine tumors is associated with high levels of sFas and sFasL in serum.

Concentrations of interleukin (IL)-1alpha, IL-1 soluble receptor type II (IL-1 sRII) and IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1 Ra) in the peritoneal fluid and serum of infertile women with endometriosis

OBJECTIVE

Endometriosis is an immune system-related gynaecological disease, characterised by an increase in number and activation of peritoneal macrophages. One of macrophage-derived factors is interleukin (IL)-1. The effects of IL-1 are inhibited by IL-1 receptor type II (IL-1 RII), soluble forms of IL-1 RII (IL-1 sRII) and IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1 Ra). The aim of our work was to study the IL-1alpha, IL-1 sRII and IL-1 Ra levels in the peritoneal fluid (PF) and serum of women with endometriosis in relation to stage of disease.

STUDY DESIGN

Concentrations of IL-1alpha, IL-1 sRII and IL-1 Ra were measured by ELISA assay in the PF and serum of 58 women; 43 with and 15 without endometriosis (control group).

RESULTS

Elevated PF and serum IL-1alpha and IL-1 Ra levels in the women with endometriosis in comparison with the control group were observed. IL-1 sRII levels in PF and serum were higher in the controls than in the women with endometriosis. Concentrations of IL-1alpha and IL-1 sRII were higher in advanced endometriosis, but higher IL-1 Ra was observed in the early stage of the disease.

CONCLUSION

Impairment of regulation IL-1 activity in the peritoneal fluid and serum of women with endometriosis may play an important role in the pathogenesis and development of the disease.

[Toxocariasis--a current clinical and diagnostic problem]

Toxocariasis is zoonotic disease caused by worms Toxocara canis and Toxocara cati. Human is its paratenic host. There are some clinical forms: Visceral larva migrans, cerebral larva migrans, ocular larva migrans and covert toxocariasis. At the present time diagnostics of toxocariasis is very difficult due to polymorphism of clinical symptoms and low specificity of laboratory tests.

[Metabolic activity of peripheral blood neutrophils in women with ovarian tumours]

OBJECTIVES AND DESIGN

Neutrophils play important role in first line defence an they release soluble growth and chemotactic factors and guide the recruitment of non-specific immune effector cells. We estimated the activity and ability to reduce of nitroblue tetrazolium (NBT) by peripheral blood neutrophils in women with benign or malignant ovarian tumours.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study was performed on 43 women between the ages of 19 and 72 with ovarian tumours. Cystadenoma serosum was diagnosed in 19 women, Cystadenocarcinoma serosum in 9, and teratoma adultum in 15 women. Venous blood samples were obtained prior to the operation. The control group consisted of 30 women their age range was from 22 to 60 years. In peripheral blood samples from both groups; there leukocyte counts and total neutrophils were determined. Metabolic activity was investigated by nitroblue tetrazolium reduction spontaneous (NBTsp) test, and stimulation by latexs (NBTst) test.

RESULTS

In women with ovarian tumours, the index of spontaneous NBT reduction turned out to be significantly higher than that in the control group (p<0.0001). In the group studied, the index of latex-stimulated NBT reduction was significantly lower than that in the control group (p<0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Intensity oxidation-reduction changes of neutrophils in reduction NBT in women with ovarian tumours were observed.

Leukemia Inhibitory Factor: An Important Regulator of Endometrial Function

PROBLEM

Leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) is multifunctional cytokine that displays biological activities in different cells, including endometrial cells. The aim of this study is to describe implications of LIF on a physiological function of endometrium.

METHOD OF STUDY

The role of LIF in the endometrial function is reviewed and summarized from the available literature.

RESULTS

LIF plays an important role in a physiological function of endometrium. In human endometrial LIF expression depends on cellular localizations, steroid hormones, menstrual stages and a local cytokine network. Stronger LIF expression exists in an endometrial epithelium during a luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, which coincides with the time of an implantation. The impairments of the endometrial LIF expression may play a significant role in the pathological processes involving implantation and the infertility.

CONCLUSIONS

There is a substantial evidence that LIF is a potential regulator of the endometrial function and might be one of the factors that play a key role in human reproduction.

[Subpopulations of CD4 and CD8 lymphocytes in peripheral blood of patients with non-toxic thyroid nodular goitre]

The aim of the research was to establish the role, which is played by the immune system is in the pathogenesis of non-toxic thyroid nodular goitre. For this purpose the expression of phenotypic markers of T-helper (CD4) and T-suppressor/cytotoxic (CD8) lymphocytes was estimated. The study was performed on 27 patients with histopathologically confirmed non-toxic thyroid nodular goitre. The control group consisted of 28 healthy blood donors. In patients with thyroid goitre the percentage of lymphocytes was significantly higher than in the control group (p < or = 0.0001). Likewise the percentage of T-helper (CD4) and T-suppressor/cytotoxic (CD8) lymphocytes as well as the CD4/CD8 ratio was significantly higher in patients with thyroid goitre. The results of this study show that the immune system has important role in pathogenesis and development of non-toxic thyroid nodular goitre.

[Significantly increased interleukin-1A and interleukin-1 soluble type II receptor levels in women with ovarian cancer]

OBJECTIVES

Recent studies indicate that interleukin-1 alpha (IL-1 alpha) is an autocrine growth factor for some ovarian cancer cells and suggest that IL-1 alpha plays an important role in the progression of this disease. However, soluble IL-1 receptors as IL-1 sRII, can modulate the effects of IL-1 alpha by acting as IL-1 alpha antagonists. The aim of our study was to compare serum IL-1 alpha and IL-1 sRII levels in patients with benign and malignant gynaecological tumours and in control.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Pretreatment serum samples were obtained from 72 women with gynaecological tumors. This study included 37 patients with gynaecological cancers (21 with cervical cancer, 16 with ovarian cancer), and 35 women with benign gynaecological disorders (20 with ovarian tumour, 15 with uterine myoma). As a control group, sera were obtained from 20 healthy female volunteers. The levels of IL-1 alpha and IL-1 sRII were measured by ELISA (R&D Systems, Inc, Minneapolis, USA).

RESULTS

Serum IL-1 alpha and IL-1 sRII levels in women with ovarian cancers were significantly higher than those in cervical cancer, and in patients with benign disorders, and in healthy control (p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggests that IL-1 alpha has a strong association with ovarian cancer.