A simple filter-paper technique allows detection of mucosal cytokine levels in vivo in ulcerative colitis. Interleukin-1 and interleukin-1-receptor antagonist.
A simple filter-paper method for in vivo assessment of cytokines in intestinal mucosa of patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) was developed and evaluated. Twenty-eight patients were included. Twenty-three patients had ulcerative colitis (UC) and five irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Inflammation was assessed endoscopically. Through a rectoscope, filter paper was applied to the macroscopically most inflamed area of the rectal mucosa until soaked. The filter paper was transferred to a buffer solution, and IL-1 beta and IL-1ra were assessed using ELISA. Positive correlations between endoscopic grading and In(IL-1 beta) (P < 0.0001) and In(IL-1ra) (P < 0.001) and a negative correlation between endoscopic grading and In(IL-1ra /IL-1 beta) (P < 0.02) were found. In measurements during and after a flare-up no significant change in IL-1ra but a significant decrease in IL-1 beta was detected, which is in agreement with investigations on biopsies. In conclusion, the filter-paper technique is an easily applicable, low-risk method that provides a means of monitoring cytokines in vivo in UC.
Hendel
J
J
Department of Medical Gastroenterology C, Herlev Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Denmark.
Nielsen
O H
OH
Madsen
S
S
Brynskov
J
J
D003093:Colitis, Ulcerative / Q000276:immunology*; D003109:Colonic Diseases, Functional / Q000276:immunology; D016207:Cytokines / Q000032:analysis; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007375:Interleukin-1 / Q000032:analysis*; D016014:Linear Models; D008297:Male; D010209:Paper; D017472:Receptors, Interleukin-1 / Q000037:antagonists & inhibitors*; D012007:Rectum / Q000276:immunology
D016207:Cytokines; D007375:Interleukin-1; D017472:Receptors, Interleukin-1