Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jul 1, 2026

Screening Assays to Characterize Novel Endothelial Regulators Involved in the Inflammatory Response
12:50

Screening Assays to Characterize Novel Endothelial Regulators Involved in the Inflammatory Response

Published on: September 15, 2017

IL1R2 identified as a key hub gene regulating vascular endothelial function in Kawasaki disease

Xiaofeng Hong1, Qianwen Wang1, Tian Lan1

  • 1The Ward II of Pediatric, Jinhua Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Jinhua, 321099, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China.

Scientific Reports
|June 29, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Kawasaki disease (KD) involves immune cells affecting blood vessels. This study identifies key genes in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and their interaction with endothelial cells, offering insights into KD pathogenesis.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Pediatric cardiology
  • Molecular biology

Background:

  • Kawasaki disease (KD) is a leading cause of acquired heart disease in children, characterized by vasculitis.
  • Coronary artery lesions (CAL) are a severe complication of KD.
  • Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) are implicated in KD pathogenesis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To identify key genes (hub genes) involved in KD using RNA sequencing.
  • To investigate the role of PBMCs and their interaction with human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) in KD.
  • To validate gene expression changes in KD patients with and without CAL.

Main Methods:

  • RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) of PBMCs from acute KD patients and healthy controls.
  • Validation of differentially expressed mRNAs (DE-mRNAs) in KD patients with and without CAL.
  • Co-culture experiments with PBMCs and HUVECs, followed by real-time PCR and ELISA.

Main Results:

  • 6039 DE-mRNAs were identified, with 30 selected as hub genes.
  • KD PBMCs impaired HUVECs viability and migration.
  • Specific gene expression patterns (IL1R2, FCGR1A, CD177) were observed in acute KD, KD with CAL, and convalescence stages.

Conclusions:

  • PBMC-HUVEC interactions play a significant role in KD.
  • Distinct molecular signatures in PBMCs correlate with KD severity and disease stage.
  • Findings enhance understanding of KD pathophysiology and potential therapeutic targets.

Keywords:
Differentially expressed mRNAsHuman umbilical vein endothelial cellsKawasaki diseasePeripheral blood mononuclear cellsRNAseq

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