The association between high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) and Interleukin-18 (IL-18) serum concentrations in COVID-19...

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Infectious Diseases
• Biochemistry

Background:

• High mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) and interleukin-18 (IL-18) are implicated in various non-coronavirus disease processes.
• These proteins are recognized as potential biomarkers for coronavirus disease (COVID-19).
• The specific role of HMGB1 and IL-18 in COVID-19 pathogenesis remains underexplored.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between serum concentrations of HMGB1 and IL-18 in patients with COVID-19 compared to those without.
• To explore the relationship between these biomarkers and COVID-19 severity.

Main Methods:

• Serum samples from 30 COVID-19 patients and 30 non-COVID-19 patients were analyzed.
• Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to quantify HMGB1 and IL-18 levels.
• Patient data, including demographics and comorbidities, were collected from medical records.

Main Results:

• HMGB1 concentrations were significantly higher in COVID-19 inpatients compared to non-COVID-19 outpatients.
• IL-18 concentrations were also elevated in COVID-19 inpatients relative to non-COVID-19 outpatients.
• A positive correlation was observed between HMGB1 and IL-18 levels in COVID-19 inpatients.

Conclusions:

• The elevated levels and association of HMGB1 and IL-18 in COVID-19 patients suggest a potential role in disease progression.
• This interplay may contribute to a cytokine storm, a dangerous hyperinflammatory response in COVID-19.
• Further research is warranted to elucidate the precise mechanisms and therapeutic implications.