Circulating cytotoxic CD8(+) CD28(-) T cells in ankylosing spondylitis

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Rheumatology
• Cellular Biology

Background:

• Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory disease primarily affecting the axial skeleton.
• T cells play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of autoimmune and inflammatory conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence and characteristics of circulating CD8(+) CD28(-) T cells in patients with ankylosing spondylitis.
• To determine the correlation between CD8(+) CD28(-) T cell levels and disease severity in AS.

Main Methods:

• Flow cytometry was used to quantify CD8(+) CD28(-) T cells in patients with AS and age-matched healthy controls.
• In vitro stimulation assays were performed to assess the functional capacity (perforin production) of these T cells.
• Clinical data, including disease activity and functional status (metrology scores), were collected and analyzed.

Main Results:

• Patients with AS exhibited significantly higher percentages of circulating CD8(+) CD28(-) T cells compared to healthy individuals (41.2% vs 18.6%).
• The expansion of CD8(+) CD28(-) T cells was associated with disease status but not age.
• These cells demonstrated perforin production upon in vitro stimulation, indicating cytotoxic potential.
• Higher percentages of CD8(+) CD28(-) T cells correlated with increased disease severity, including restricted movement and poorer metrology scores.

Conclusions:

• Elevated levels of circulating CD8(+) CD28(-) T cells are characteristic of ankylosing spondylitis.
• These cytotoxic T cells may contribute to disease pathogenesis and reflect disease severity.
• CD8(+) CD28(-) T cell counts represent a potential biomarker for monitoring AS progression and clinical outcomes.