Measurement of cytokines in autoimmune disease.
Systemic autoimmune diseases are characterized by extensive alterations in immune system function, with cytokines and autoantibodies contributing to impaired immunoregulation and tissue damage. Characterization of the expression and function of cytokines is important for elucidation of pathogenic mechanisms and for identification of therapeutic targets and strategies. We reviewed the utility of assays that reflect individual variability in cytokine gene sequence, expression of messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) or protein, as well as measurement of expression of target genes regulated by cytokines. Real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction and intracellular staining for cytokine expression are two sensitive and quantitative approaches for analysis of cytokine mRNA and protein, respectively. Detailed methods are provided for these assays.
Mary Kirkland Center for Lupus Research, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY, USA.
Kyriakos A
KA
Kirou
Christina
C
Lee
Mary K
MK
Crow
D001327:Autoimmune Diseases / Q000235:genetics / Q000276:immunology*; D016207:Cytokines / Q000032:analysis* / Q000096:biosynthesis / Q000235:genetics; D015870:Gene Expression; D006801:Humans; D007158:Immunologic Techniques; D007963:Leukocytes, Mononuclear / Q000276:immunology; D008180:Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / Q000235:genetics / Q000276:immunology; D016133:Polymerase Chain Reaction / Q000379:methods; D011110:Polymorphism, Genetic; D012333:RNA, Messenger / Q000032:analysis / Q000235:genetics; D013194:Staining and Labeling / Q000379:methods
D016207:Cytokines; D012333:RNA, Messenger