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Circulating microparticles in neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematosus
Kendall P Crookston1, Wilmer L Sibbitt, Wayne L Chandler
1Department of Pathology, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131, USA. kcrookston@salud.unm.edu
International Journal of Rheumatic Diseases
|February 28, 2013
Summary
Cell-derived microparticles, implicated in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), were investigated for neuropsychiatric SLE (NPSLE). Monocyte-derived microparticles were reduced in active NPSLE, correlating with disease activity and corticosteroid use.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Neurology
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Cell-derived microparticles (MPs) are markers of cellular activation in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
- MPs are also associated with primary neurologic diseases.
- The role of MPs in neuropsychiatric SLE (NPSLE) remains unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between cellular-derived MPs and NPSLE.
- To determine if MP levels differ in SLE patients with and without neuropsychiatric involvement.
Main Methods:
- Plasma MPs were quantified in 51 SLE patients and 22 controls.
- NPSLE activity was assessed using the neurologic components of the SLE Disease Activity Index (Neuro-SLEDAI).
- MP levels were correlated with NPSLE activity, corticosteroid dosage, and C5a levels.
Main Results:
- Total MPs and MPs from platelets, monocytes, or endothelial cells did not differ between SLE patients and controls.
- Levels of circulating monocyte-derived MPs were significantly reduced in SLE patients with active NPSLE.
- Reduced monocyte-derived MPs correlated with higher NPSLE activity, increased corticosteroid dosage, and elevated C5a levels.
Conclusions:
- Circulating cell-derived microparticles, particularly those from monocytes, are reduced in active NPSLE.
- The exact mechanisms for this reduction (e.g., decreased production, increased consumption, or sequestration) require further investigation.
- These findings suggest MPs may serve as potential biomarkers for NPSLE activity.
