Cytokine profile in active Crohn's disease

Introduction: The precise etiology of Crohn's disease (CD) is still to be explained. Recent data suggest that CD is due to a loss of balance between pro- and anti-inflammatory agents and the overactivity of Th1 and Th17 cells. Aim of the study: Our project was aimed to investigate the Th1/Th2/Th17 serum cytokine profile in patients with CD. Material and methods: A group of 50 adults with diagnosed CD was enrolled. All the patients were classified according to the Crohn’s Disease Activity Index as having an active, moderate-to-severe form of CD (CDAI ≥220). Serum samples were cytometrically tested for concentrations of IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, IL-17A, TNF-α and IFN-γ. Results: Statistical analysis showed significantly higher serum levels of IL-2, IL-6, IL-17A, TNF-α and IFN-γ in CD patients comparing to the control group (p<0.05). No significant differences in IL-4 and IL-10 serum levels were observed. In our study, we demonstrated the predominance of Th1 cytokine profile in the serum of moderate-to-severe CD patients. We also found higher levels of IL-17A, suggesting a possible role of recently discovered Th17 cells in the pathogenesis of CD. Conclusions: Active moderate-to-severe Crohn's disease is characterized by Th1/ Th17 serum cytokine profile. The precise role of Th17 cells, however, is still not known, and further research is needed to elucidate it and to explore the potential of new therapeutic strategies in CD patients.