IL-21/23 axis modulates inflammatory cytokines and RANKL expression in RA CD4⁺ T cells via p-Akt1 signaling.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

CD4⁺ T cells are critically involved in the pathogenesis of Rheumatoid Arthritis; an autoimmune disorder characterized by joint inflammation and bone degeneration. In this study, we focused on the critical role of cytokines, IL-21 and IL-23 in facilitating the aberrant status of RA Th17-like cells and report their significant contribution(s) in modulating the expression of inflammatory cytokines and RANKL.

Methods

Blood and synovial fluid collected from a total of 167 RA patients and 25 healthy volunteers were assessed for various inflammatory markers and RANKL expression in plasma and CD4⁺ T cells. Subsequent ex vivo studies examined the role of specific cytokines, IL-21 and IL-23 in mediating inflammation and RANKL upregulation by

SUBMITTER: Bhattacharya G 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10551441 | biostudies-literature | 2023

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature