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Plasma IL-1 and IL-6 Family Cytokines with Soluble Receptor Levels at Diagnosis in Head and Neck Squamous Cell
Helene Hersvik Aarstad1,2, Svein Erik Emblem Moe1, Stein Lybak1,3
1Department of Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery, Haukeland University Hospital, 5009 Bergen, Norway.
Cancers
|April 27, 2024
Summary
High plasma levels of IL-6, IL-31, IL-1RA, and soluble receptors IL-6Rα, gp130, and IL33Rα predict survival in human papillomavirus-negative head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). These biomarkers show potential for immunotherapy stratification and development.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Immunology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- The acute-phase cascade (APC) is linked to cancer outcomes.
- Interleukin-6 (IL-6) and IL-1 families are key drivers of the APC.
- Human papillomavirus-negative head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HPV(-) HNSCC) presents unique challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the correlation between plasma levels of IL-6 family cytokines/soluble receptors and IL-1 family members with survival in HPV(-) HNSCC patients.
- To identify potential biomarkers for predicting disease-specific survival (DSS) and overall survival (OS).
Main Methods:
- Plasma levels of specific cytokines and soluble receptors were measured at diagnosis in 87 HPV(-) HNSCC patients.
- Statistical analysis was performed to correlate these levels with 5-year DSS and OS.
- The predictive value of biomarkers was assessed in relation to TNM stage and smoking history.
Main Results:
- Increased plasma levels of IL-6, IL-31, IL-1RA, soluble IL-6 receptor alpha (s-IL-6Rα), and soluble gp130 (s-gp130) were significant predictors of both OS and DSS.
- Soluble receptors (s-IL-6Rα, s-gp130, s-IL-33Rα) showed unique predictive capabilities for DSS/OS.
- IL-6 levels above 2.5 pg/mL demonstrated 75% specificity and 70% sensitivity for DSS.
Conclusions:
- High plasma concentrations of IL-6, IL-31, IL-1RA, s-IL-6Rα, s-gp130, and s-IL-33Rα are associated with poorer clinical outcomes in HPV(-) HNSCC.
- These molecules represent promising candidates for immune therapy stratification and the development of novel immunotherapies.
- Biomarker-guided treatment strategies could improve patient stratification and therapeutic efficacy in HNSCC.
