Cytokines and adhesion molecules in the pathogenesis of vasculitis

Abstract

Upregulated adhesion molecule and cytokine expression on endothelial cells and infiltrating inflammatory cells occur in most vasculitis syndromes. These observations suggest that vasculitis is associated with pathologic activation of normal immune cell cytokine cascades. Abnormal expression of adhesion molecules and cytokines in vascular endothelium is a manifestation of endothelial dysfunction that can be triggered by a variety of stimuli, including infectious agents, immune complexes, and antiendothelial cell antibodies. Dysregulated adhesion molecule expression, uncontrolled inflammation, thrombosis, and vessel occlusion lead to the clinical manifestations of vasculitis.

Increased serum levels of macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) in patients with microscopic polyangiitis

“…It has been reported that serum levels of endothelial molecules such as adhesion molecules and EC-derived cytokines were elevated in patients with vasculitis. [27][28][29] Furthermore, vasculitis-affected small vessels seen in MPA may have dysregulated endothelial cell function. 30 In patients with MPA, the origin of the increased serum MIF levels seems to be cells that are capable of secreting MIF; 11,13,31 specifi cally, the endothelial cells and/or infl ammatory cells such as monocytes and neutrophils.…”

Clinical Relevance of Cytokines, Chemokines and Adhesion Molecules in Systemic Vasculitis

“…Similarly, Becker et al showed that AAV patients have elevated serum MIF levels (Becker, Maaser et al 2006). Patients with vasculitis have increased serum levels of endothelial-related molecules, such as adhesion molecules and EC-derived cytokines (Bradley et al 1994;Johnson et al 1997;Sundy & Haynes 2000). Indeed, vasculitis-affected small vessels, such as those found in MPA, may have dysregulated EC function (Filer et al 2003).…”

Endothelial Microparticles and the Diagnosis of the Vasculitides

“…The cause of the majority of the vasculitides is unknown, and it is likely that a complex interaction between inherited determinants and environmental factors such as infections trigger the disease. Upregulated adhesion molecule expression on endothelial cells and infiltrating inflammatory cells occur in primary systemic vasculitis, and endothelial dysfunction is likely to be central to the mechanism through which adhesion molecules and cytokines contribute to the pathogenesis of vasculitis (2).…”