CD14 down-modulation as a real-time biomarker in Kawasaki disease

Yutaro Inada1, Motoshi Sonoda2,3, Yumi Mizuno1

  • 1Kawasaki Disease Center Fukuoka Children's Hospital Fukuoka Japan.

Insights

Kawasaki disease (KD) involves immune cell changes and oxidative stress. CD14 down-modulation on monocytes and elevated oxidative stress markers are key indicators in KD patients, aiding treatment assessment.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Oxidative Stress Research
  • Pediatric Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Kawasaki disease (KD) pathophysiology involves complex immunological responses and oxidative stress.
  • Identifying real-time biomarkers for innate immunity and oxidative stress in KD is crucial for effective management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the pathophysiology of Kawasaki disease (KD) through immunological and oxidative stress lenses.
  • To identify real-time biomarkers associated with innate immunity and oxidative stress in KD patients.

Main Methods:

  • Prospective enrollment of 85 KD patients and 135 controls.
  • Flow cytometry analysis of monocyte surface markers (CD14, CD38, CD62L) and CD14 down-modulation.
  • Assessment of oxidative stress using d-ROMs and antioxidant capacity via a free radical elective evaluator system.

Main Results:

  • Significant CD14 down-modulation observed on monocytes during acute KD, indicating innate immune patterns.
  • KD patients exhibited higher CD14 down-modulation and elevated d-ROM levels compared to controls.
  • Monocyte CD14 expression normalized with intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) and infliximab treatment; oxidative stress decreased post-IVIG.

Conclusions:

  • CD14 down-modulation on monocytes serves as a valuable real-time biomarker for assessing KD treatment response and differentiating relapse from infection.
  • The interplay between inflammation and oxidative stress is critical in KD pathogenesis.
  • Monitoring these biomarkers can guide second-line therapy selection post-IVIG in KD.
Abstract