Peripheral levels of sST2 are increased in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy: Additional evidence of low-grade inflammation

Abstract

Inflammation plays a pivotal role in temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) pathophysiology. IL-33 can act as a transcription factor or as a cytokine, the latter through the transmembrane ST2 receptor or its soluble isoform (sST2), presenting a dual role in neurological diseases. The aim of this study was to determine the plasma levels of IL-33 and sST2 in parallel with clinical features in patients with TLE. Peripheral blood from patients and controls was sampled for the measurement of plasma levels of IL-33 and sST2 by enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA). While there were similar levels of IL-33 between controls and patients, sST2 were increased in patients. IL33 and sST2 plasma levels were not associated with TLE-related clinical features. In a subgroup analysis, IL-33 levels correlated with memory performance. In conclusion, our results reinforce the concept of chronic low-grade inflammation in patients with TLE.

Interrelationship and Sequencing of Interleukins4, 13, 31, and 33 – An Integrated Systematic Review: Dermatological and Multidisciplinary Perspectives

“… 182 Memory performance was also correlated with IL-33 levels in temporal lobe epilepsy. 180 In an animal model of recurrent neonatal seizures, IL-33 administration improved learning, memory, and behavior deficits, as well as body weight gain secondary to seizures by inhibition of apoptosis, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and neuroinflammation. 181 Thus, IL-33 seems to be a new, promising treatment option for reducing the negative impact of recurrent seizures.…”

“…154 A few studies have identified a relationship between IL-33/ST2 pathway and epilepsy. 153,[180][181][182] Plasma ST2 levels were found higher in patients with increased epileptiform abnormalities after SAH, as well as patients with focal temporal lobe epilepsy. 153,180 Moreover, oxidative stress index, which is significantly higher in patients not responding to antiepileptic drug treatment, was positively correlated with IL-33 levels.…”

“…153,[180][181][182] Plasma ST2 levels were found higher in patients with increased epileptiform abnormalities after SAH, as well as patients with focal temporal lobe epilepsy. 153,180 Moreover, oxidative stress index, which is significantly higher in patients not responding to antiepileptic drug treatment, was positively correlated with IL-33 levels. 182 Memory performance was also correlated with IL-33 levels in temporal lobe epilepsy.…”