Serum BAFF and thyroid autoantibodies in autoimmune thyroid disease

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Endocrinology
• Thyroid Research

Background:

• Autoimmune thyroid diseases (AITD), including Graves' disease (GD) and Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT), are prevalent conditions.
• B-lymphocyte activating factor (BAFF) is a key cytokine in B-cell regulation and autoimmunity.
• The role of BAFF in AITD pathogenesis requires further elucidation, particularly in diverse populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between serum BAFF levels and AITD in a Chinese cohort.
• To explore correlations between BAFF, thyroid function, and thyroid autoantibodies (TAb) in AITD patients.

Main Methods:

• Serum BAFF levels, thyroid function tests, and TAb (TSHRAb, Anti-TPO Ab, ATA) were measured in 221 AITD patients (170 GD, 51 HT) and 124 healthy controls.
• Statistical analyses were performed to assess differences and correlations.

Main Results:

• Serum BAFF levels were significantly higher in GD, HT, and overall AITD groups compared to controls.
• BAFF levels correlated with TSHRAb, Anti-TPO Ab, and ATA in women, but not men.
• In active GD, BAFF levels were associated with free thyroxine and TSHRAb, with a sex-specific pattern observed.

Conclusions:

• Serum BAFF is elevated in patients with GD, HT, and AITD.
• The relationship between BAFF and TAb shows sexual dimorphism, especially in active GD.
• These findings suggest BAFF as a potential biomarker and therapeutic target in AITD.