Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 12, 2026
Routine Screening Method for Microparticles in Platelet Transfusions
Published on: January 31, 2018
Increased circulating endothelial microparticles in children with FMF
Sibel Yel1, İsmail Dursun2, Feyza Çetin3
1a Department of Pediatric Nephrology , Kayseri Education and Research Hospital , Kayseri , Turkey.
Objective:
Endothelial microparticles (EMPs) are considered as markers of endothelial dysfunction. In this study, we aimed to examine whether there is endothelial dysfunction in children with familial Mediterranean fever (FMF), hypothesizing that endothelial dysfunction would be present especially with acute-phase response in the active period of the disease.
Methods:
This cross-sectional study included 65 FMF patients (41 attack free, 24 attack period) and 35 healthy controls. Circulating EMPs, serum amyloid A (SAA), and other inflammation markers were measured in all groups. Circulating EMPs were measured using flow cytometry. Study groups were compared for circulating EMP and inflammatory markers. The relationship between EMPs and the activation of the disease was evaluated.
Results:
The levels of CD144+ and CD146+ EMPs in the FMF attack period group were significantly higher than those of the control group (p < 0.05). The levels of inflammation markers in the attack period group were significantly higher than those of the control and attack-free groups (p < 0.05). In the FMF attack group, the CD144+ and CD146+ EMP were significantly correlated with CRP.
Conclusions:
Our results suggest that endothelial damage is present especially in the active period of the disease in children with FMF. The endothelial dysfunction becomes an overt parallel with inflammation.
Insights
Children with familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) show endothelial dysfunction, particularly during active disease periods. This endothelial damage parallels increased inflammation markers, suggesting a link between FMF activity and vascular health.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Rheumatology
- Vascular Biology
- Inflammatory Diseases
Background:
- Endothelial microparticles (EMPs) are recognized indicators of endothelial dysfunction.
- Familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) is a genetic autoinflammatory disorder.
- Endothelial dysfunction may be associated with inflammatory conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate endothelial dysfunction in children diagnosed with FMF.
- To determine if endothelial dysfunction is more pronounced during active FMF attacks.
- To explore the relationship between EMP levels and disease activity in FMF.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving 65 FMF patients (attack-free and attack periods) and 35 healthy controls.
- Measurement of circulating EMPs (CD144+, CD146+) via flow cytometry.
- Assessed serum amyloid A (SAA) and other inflammation markers, including C-reactive protein (CRP).
Main Results:
- Significantly elevated levels of CD144+ and CD146+ EMPs were observed in FMF patients during attack periods compared to controls.
- Inflammation markers were significantly higher in the FMF attack group versus control and attack-free groups.
- CD144+ and CD146+ EMP levels correlated significantly with CRP in FMF patients during attacks.
Conclusions:
- Endothelial damage is evident in children with FMF, especially during active disease phases.
- Endothelial dysfunction in FMF appears to be directly associated with the inflammatory state.
- EMPs serve as potential biomarkers for endothelial dysfunction in pediatric FMF.
Related Concept Videos
01:18Increasing Function
01:21Coronary Circulation
Coronary circulation begins at the base of the aorta, where two main arteries arise—the left and right coronary arteries. These arteries encircle the heart in the coronary sulcus and supply the...
01:14Fetal Circulation
Two umbilical arteries transport blood from the fetus to the placenta. At the placenta, the blood absorbs oxygen and nutrients while simultaneously eliminating waste products. This oxygen-enriched and nutrient-rich blood then returns to the fetus through one...
01:25Increased Body Temperature
01:17Increased pulse rate
Many factors can elevate the risk of developing tachycardia. These include advanced age, a family history of arrhythmias, and an...
01:19Overview of Pulmonary Circulation
The process begins with the right ventricle of the heart pumping deoxygenated blood into the pulmonary trunk. This large vessel extends about 5 centimeters before splitting into the left and right pulmonary arteries. These arteries...