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Updated: Aug 13, 2026

In vivo Imaging Method to Distinguish Acute and Chronic Inflammation
Published on: August 16, 2013
[Study on gene expression difference of polymorphonuclear neutrophils in early and late periods of systemic
Yi Liu1, Xiao-ming Deng, Jin-bao Li
1Department of Anesthesiology, Changhai Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China. ziboliuyi@yeah.net
Objective:
To study the gene expression difference of polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMN) in systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) in early and late periods termed as multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS) and to evaluate the related changes in function of PMN.
Methods:
Using cDNA microarray technology, RNA of peripheral blood PMN of 4 patients with SIRS was detected in early and late periods, the gene expression difference was observed and analyzed.
Results:
Among 8 464 genes there were 84 differently expressed with 19 expressed higher and 65 expressed lower. The differently expressed genes consisted of cell receptor genes (31 percent), immunity-related genes (27 percent), metabolism-related genes (20 percent), and genes of DNA binding or transcriptional factors (18 percent) etc.
Conclusion:
Differently expressed genes suggest that PMN in MODS be in a dysfunctional state characterized by decreasing innate immunity response and increased tissue auto-injury, which may portend a bad prognosis of the patients.
Insights
Gene expression changes in polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMN) during systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) indicate a dysfunctional state in multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS). This dysfunction involves reduced immunity and increased self-injury, suggesting a poor prognosis.
Area of Science:
- Molecular biology
- Immunology
- Genomics
Context:
- Systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) can progress to multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS).
- Polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMN) play a critical role in the inflammatory process.
- Understanding PMN gene expression changes is crucial for diagnosing and treating SIRS/MODS.
Purpose:
- To investigate the gene expression profiles of PMN in early and late stages of SIRS/MODS.
- To analyze the functional implications of observed gene expression differences in PMN.
- To correlate PMN gene expression patterns with patient prognosis.
Summary:
- cDNA microarray analysis of peripheral blood PMN from 4 SIRS patients revealed 84 differentially expressed genes between early and late stages.
- Key affected gene categories include cell receptors (31%), immunity-related genes (27%), metabolism (20%), and transcription factors (18%).
- PMN in MODS exhibit altered gene expression, suggesting impaired innate immunity and heightened tissue auto-injury.
Impact:
- The study identifies specific molecular pathways affected in PMN during MODS.
- Findings suggest that PMN dysfunction contributes to disease progression and poor outcomes.
- This research may inform the development of novel diagnostic markers and therapeutic strategies for MODS.
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