Time-dependent changes in YKL-40 and inflammatory markers in experimental acute mesenteric ischaemia

Early diagnosis of acute mesenteric ischaemia (AMI) remains challenging due to the lack of reliable biomarkers. This study aimed to investigate the time-dependent changes in chitinase-3-like protein 1 (YKL-40) and selected inflammatory markers in an experimental AMI model.

A randomized controlled experimental study was conducted on 48 Wistar-albino rats. Mesenteric ischaemia was induced by ligation of the superior mesenteric artery. Blood and tissue samples were collected at 1, 3 and 6 h. Serum YKL-40, interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-10 (IL-10) and lactate levels were measured, and histopathological damage was assessed.

IL-6 levels increased significantly as early as 1 h (p = 0.010) and showed a progressive rise over time (p < 0.001), with a strong positive correlation with histopathological damage (r = 0.805). Lactate levels increased significantly at later time points. YKL-40 levels did not differ in the early phase but were significantly elevated at 6 h (p < 0.001). IL-10 levels decreased significantly in advanced ischaemia (p = 0.005).

IL-6 showed an early increase and a strong association with histopathological damage, whereas YKL-40 appeared to be associated with later-stage inflammation rather than early ischaemic injury. These findings highlight the importance of time-dependent biomarker interpretation and support further evaluation of combined biomarker strategies in AMI.