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Altered monocyte activation markers in Tourette's syndrome: a case-control study
Judith Matz1, Daniela L Krause, Sandra Dehning
1Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Ludwig Maximilian University, Nussbaumstrasse 7, Munich, Germany.
BMC Psychiatry
|April 5, 2012
Summary
Tourette syndrome (TS) patients show higher levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) and monocytes, indicating innate immune system dysregulation. This immune imbalance may increase susceptibility to infections and autoimmune conditions in individuals with TS.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Neuroscience
- Genetics
Background:
- Infections and immune system processes are implicated in Tourette syndrome (TS) pathogenesis.
- Focus on innate immunity, inflammation markers, monocytes, and cytokines to explore common immunological mechanisms in TS.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate innate immunity markers in Tourette syndrome patients.
- Determine levels of inflammation, monocytes, and monocyte-derived cytokines in TS.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study comparing 46 TS patients with 43 healthy controls.
- Measured C-reactive protein (CRP), neopterin, monocyte counts, TNF-alpha, IL-6, sCD14, and IL1-ra using immunoassays.
Main Results:
- TS patients had significantly higher CRP, neopterin, and monocyte counts compared to controls.
- Lower serum concentrations of TNF-alpha, IL1-ra, and sCD14 were observed in TS patients.
- All measured values remained within normal ranges, often near detection limits.
Conclusions:
- Results suggest monocyte dysregulation in Tourette syndrome.
- This innate immune system imbalance may predispose individuals with TS to infections or autoimmune reactions.
