14–3-3 η ETA protein as a potential marker of joint damage in gout

•Serum 14–3-3 η protein levels are significantly higher in gout patients, especially those with erosions.•14–3-3 η protein may have a critical role in inflammatory and structural damage related pathways in gout.•14–3-3 η protein may have a potential to be used as a marker for joint damage in gout. The aim of the study is to investigate serum levels of 14–3-3 η (ETA) protein in patients with gout and possible relations with joint damage. This cross-sectional study included 43 gout patients and 30 control patients. Serum 14–3-3 η protein levels were significantly higher in gout patients (median [IQR], 3.1 [2.0] vs 2.2 [1.0], p = 0.007). In subgroup analyses of gout patients, serum 14–3-3 η protein levels did not differ between patients with and without a flare, tophaceous disease, elevated CRP and serum uric acid levels and a history of chronic kidney disease; however, were significantly higher in the patients with erosions (Median [IQR], 4.1 [2.7] vs 2.7 [1.5], p = 0.002). According to ROC curve, serum 14–3-3 η protein had 86.0% sensitivity and 30% specifity at a cut-off point of 1.7 ng/mL and had 74.7% sensitivity and 43.3% specifity at a cut-off point of 2.0 ng/mL. Our results demonstrated elevated levels of 14–3-3 η protein in gout patients which is more prominent in patients with erosive changes, implying role of 14–3-3 η protein in inflammatory and structural damage related pathways and suggesting a potential as a marker for disease severity.