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HLA-DR2 phenotype and plasma lysozyme, beta-glucuronidase and acid phosphatase levels in pulmonary tuberculosis
P Selvaraj1, M Kannapiran, A M Reetha
1Tuberculosis Research Centre, Indian Council of Medical Research, Madras, India.
Setting:
Tuberculosis Research Centre, Indian Council of Medical Research, Madras, India.
Objective:
To elucidate the role of HLA-Class II genes/gene products on phagocyte enzymes such as lysozyme, beta-glucuronidase and acid phosphatase in the plasma of pulmonary tuberculosis patients.
Design:
Serological determination of HLA-DR and -DQ antigens was carried out in 54 active and 84 inactive pulmonary tuberculosis (quiescent) patients and 36 healthy control subjects. The levels of lysozyme, beta-glucuronidase and acid phosphatase were measured in the plasma of tuberculosis patients and control subjects.
Results:
Increased lysozyme levels were observed in active pulmonary tuberculosis patients. beta-glucuronidase activity was higher in inactive-TB than in active-TB patients and control subjects. HLA-DR2 positive patients showed a lower lysozyme level than -DR2 negative patients.
Conclusion:
Increase in the plasma lysozyme level in active TB reveals the active stage of the disease. Further, increase in the activity of beta-glucuronidase in inactive-TB patients reveals the quiescent stage of the disease. The low level of lysozyme in HLA-DR2 positive patients may also be one of the possible factors involved in susceptibility to tuberculosis.
Insights
Plasma lysozyme levels indicate active tuberculosis, while beta-glucuronidase activity suggests a quiescent disease state. HLA-DR2 positivity may increase tuberculosis susceptibility due to lower lysozyme levels.
Area of Science:
- Immunogenetics
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) is a significant global health concern.
- Understanding host genetic factors influencing TB pathogenesis is crucial for developing effective interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) Class II genes and specific phagocyte enzyme levels in pulmonary TB patients.
- To determine the role of HLA-Class II gene products in modulating plasma lysozyme, beta-glucuronidase, and acid phosphatase in TB.
Main Methods:
- Serological determination of HLA-DR and HLA-DQ antigens in 54 active TB, 84 inactive TB, and 36 healthy control subjects.
- Quantification of plasma lysozyme, beta-glucuronidase, and acid phosphatase levels in all study groups.
Main Results:
- Elevated plasma lysozyme levels were observed in active pulmonary TB patients.
- Higher beta-glucuronidase activity was detected in inactive TB patients compared to active TB patients and controls.
- Patients positive for HLA-DR2 exhibited lower plasma lysozyme levels than HLA-DR2 negative individuals.
Conclusions:
- Increased plasma lysozyme correlates with active TB, indicating disease activity.
- Elevated beta-glucuronidase activity in inactive TB patients suggests a role in the quiescent disease phase.
- Lower lysozyme levels in HLA-DR2 positive individuals may contribute to increased susceptibility to tuberculosis.