Evaluation of circulating IL-35, IL-39, and oncostatin M as potential biomarkers in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis

Abstract

Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an immune-mediated, chronic inflammatory demyelinating disease of the central nervous system (CNS). Hence, there is a need to identify more biomarkers that may assist in developing new therapeutic strategies. This study aims to compare the levels of interleukin (IL)-35, IL-39, and oncostatin M (OSM) in patients with relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) and healthy controls.

Methods: Blood samples were collected from 38 patients with RRMS and 36 healthy individuals who served as a control group to measure the levels of the cytokines under study. The plasma levels of IL-35, IL-39, and OSM were measured and compared between the two groups using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Additionally, the expression of these cytokines was evaluated using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).

Results: Our results showed that RRMS is associated with higher levels of OSM and IL-39 and lower levels of IL-35 compared to healthy subjects. The results demonstrated that the levels of OSM and IL-39 in RRMS patients were significantly reduced by IFN-β therapy. EDSS scores and IL-35 levels were found to be negatively correlated, while OSM levels and EDSS scores showed a positive and significant correlation. Statistical analysis revealed no significant relationship between IL-35, IL-39, and OSM plasma levels and factors such as age, gender, education level, and job.

Conclusion: Elevated levels of OSM and IL-39 and decreased levels of IL-35 in RRMS patients suggest their potential as biomarkers for disease activity and progression. The correlation between these cytokines and EDSS scores further supports their relevance. Future research should focus on further elucidating the roles of these cytokines in RRMS and exploring their potential as therapeutic targets.