Soluble ST2 Predicts Poor Functional Outcome in Acute Ischemic Stroke Patients

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Biomarker Discovery
• Stroke Research

Background:

• Limited data exists on biomarkers predicting outcomes in acute ischemic stroke (AIS).
• This study investigates soluble serum stimulation-2 (sST2), matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), and claudin-5 as potential biomarkers in AIS.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the predictive value of plasma sST2, MMP-9, and claudin-5 concentrations for functional outcomes in patients with AIS.
• To identify reliable biomarkers for assessing stroke severity and prognosis.

Main Methods:

• Plasma biomarker levels (sST2, MMP-9, claudin-5) were measured in 108 AIS patients at baseline, 12h, and 24h post-stroke.
• Stroke severity and 90-day functional outcomes were assessed using NIHSS and mRS.
• Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis and logistic regression identified predictive markers.

Main Results:

• Elevated sST2 levels at 12h and 24h post-stroke correlated with poor functional outcomes.
• sST2 levels ≥71.8 ng/mL at 24h were identified as an independent predictor of poor outcome (OR: 6.44, 95% CI: 1.40-46.3).
• MMP-9 and claudin-5 did not show significant association with outcomes.

Conclusions:

• sST2 shows potential as a reliable biomarker for predicting functional outcomes in AIS.
• Early evaluation of sST2 may aid in prognostication and clinical management of AIS patients.