Identifying Early Biomarkers for Tuberculosis Progression
Author Information
Author(s): Sutherland Jayne S., Hill Philip C., Adetifa Ifedayo M., de Jong Bouke C., Donkor Simon, Joosten Simone A., Opmeer Lizet, Haks Marielle C., Ottenhoff Tom H. M., Adegbola Richard A., Ota Martin O. C.
Primary Institution: Medical Research Council Unit, Fajara, The Gambia
Hypothesis
What are the immune system differences between individuals who progress to active tuberculosis and those who do not?
Conclusion
The study identifies several immune markers that may predict the onset of active tuberculosis shortly after infection.
Supporting Evidence
- Progressors had lower CD4+ T cells and NKT cells compared to non-progressors.
- Higher levels of IL-18 were found in progressors at all time points.
- Progressors showed lower Bcl2 gene expression and higher CCR7 levels.
Takeaway
This study looks at how the immune systems of people who get sick with tuberculosis differ from those who stay healthy, helping us find ways to spot the disease early.
Methodology
The study analyzed immune parameters in 22 progressors and 31 non-progressors using immunophenotyping, plasma cytokine levels, and gene expression analysis.
Potential Biases
Potential selection bias due to the matching of non-progressors with progressors.
Limitations
The small sample size of progressors and variability in progression time limit the findings.
Participant Demographics
Median age of progressors was 25 years, with 58% males.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.01
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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