FRI0416 Cd4+Cd25high Foxp3+ T Regulatory Cells and Related Cytokines (IL-6, IL-10, TGF-β) in Neuropsychiatric Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Background Dysfunction of peripheral immune tolerance against self antigens is a critical factor in the pathogenesis of neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematosus (NPSLE) and is mainly mediated by T regulatory cells (Tregs). Objectives Aim of the present study was the evaluation of Tregs and related cytokines (IL-6, IL-10, TGF-β) in regard to disease activity in NPSLE patients. Methods Twenty patients (17 females, 3 males, mean age 44.9±14.1 years, mean disease duration 87.2±63.4 months) were included. CD4+CD25highFOXP3+ Tregs were assessed by triple color flow cytometry in 88 peripheral blood samples (26 active, 62 inactive disease). IL-6, IL-10 and TGF-β were evaluated by ELISA in 36 serum samples (18 active, 18 inactive disease). Disease activity was determined using SLEDAI (SLE Disease Activity Index). Statistics were performed by Student's t-test; p