liu.seSearch for publications in DiVA
Planned maintenance
A system upgrade is planned for 10/12-2024, at 12:00-13:00. During this time DiVA will be unavailable.
Change search
Refine search result
1234 1 - 50 of 178
CiteExportLink to result list
Permanent link
Cite
Citation style
  • apa
  • ieee
  • modern-language-association-8th-edition
  • vancouver
  • oxford
  • Other style
More styles
Language
  • de-DE
  • en-GB
  • en-US
  • fi-FI
  • nn-NO
  • nn-NB
  • sv-SE
  • Other locale
More languages
Output format
  • html
  • text
  • asciidoc
  • rtf
Rows per page
  • 5
  • 10
  • 20
  • 50
  • 100
  • 250
Sort
  • Standard (Relevance)
  • Author A-Ö
  • Author Ö-A
  • Title A-Ö
  • Title Ö-A
  • Publication type A-Ö
  • Publication type Ö-A
  • Issued (Oldest first)
  • Issued (Newest first)
  • Created (Oldest first)
  • Created (Newest first)
  • Last updated (Oldest first)
  • Last updated (Newest first)
  • Disputation date (earliest first)
  • Disputation date (latest first)
  • Standard (Relevance)
  • Author A-Ö
  • Author Ö-A
  • Title A-Ö
  • Title Ö-A
  • Publication type A-Ö
  • Publication type Ö-A
  • Issued (Oldest first)
  • Issued (Newest first)
  • Created (Oldest first)
  • Created (Newest first)
  • Last updated (Oldest first)
  • Last updated (Newest first)
  • Disputation date (earliest first)
  • Disputation date (latest first)
Select
The maximal number of hits you can export is 250. When you want to export more records please use the Create feeds function.
  • 1.
    Abelius, Martina
    et al.
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Neuro and Inflammation Science. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Jedenfalk, Malin
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Neuro and Inflammation Science. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Ernerudh, Jan
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Neuro and Inflammation Science. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine.
    Janefjord, Camilla
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Neuro and Inflammation Science. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Berg, Göran
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Children's and Women's health. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center of Paediatrics and Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics in Linköping.
    Matthiesen, Leif
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Children's and Women's health. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center of Paediatrics and Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics in Linköping. Helsingborg Hospital, Sweden.
    Jenmalm, Maria
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Neuro and Inflammation Science. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Pregnancy modulates the allergen-induced cytokine production differently in allergic and non-allergic women2017In: Pediatric Allergy and Immunology, ISSN 0905-6157, E-ISSN 1399-3038, Vol. 28, no 8, p. 818-824Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Background: The immunological environment during pregnancy may differ between allergic and non-allergic women. This study investigates the effect of maternal allergy on the allergen-induced cytokine and chemokine levels and whether pregnancy modulates these immune responses differently in allergic and non-allergic women. Methods: The birch-, cat-, phytohemagglutinin- and tetanus toxoid-induced interferon-gamma(IFN-gamma), interleukin (IL)-4, IL-5, IL-10, IL-13, the T-helper 1 (Th1)-associated chemokine CXCL10 and the Th2-associated chemokine CCL17 levels were quantified in 20 women with allergic symptoms (sensitized, n=13) and 36 women without allergic symptoms (non-sensitized, n=30) at gestational weeks 10-12, 15-16, 25, 35 and 2 and 12months post-partum. Results: Birch-, but not cat-induced, IL-5, IL-13 and CCL17 levels were increased during pregnancy as compared to post-partum in the sensitized women with allergic symptoms. In contrast, cat-, but not birch-induced, IL-5 and IL-13 levels were increased during pregnancy as compared to post-partum in the non-sensitized women without allergic symptoms. Furthermore, IFN-gamma secretion was increased in the first and decreased in the second and third trimesters in response to birch and decreased in the third trimester in response to cat as compared to post-partum in the non-sensitized women without allergic symptoms. Increased allergen-induced IL-4, IL-5 and IL-13 levels were associated with allergic symptoms and sensitization. Conclusions: Pregnancy had a clear effect on the allergen-induced IL-5, IL-13, CCL17, IFN-gamma and CXCL10 production, with distinct enhanced Th2-responses to birch in the allergic group and to cat in the non-allergic group.

    Download full text (pdf)
    fulltext
  • 2.
    Abelius, Martina S
    et al.
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Neuro and Inflammation Science. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Janefjord, Camilla
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Cell Biology. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Ernerudh, Jan
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Neuro and Inflammation Science. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine.
    Berg, Göran
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Clinical Sciences. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center of Paediatrics and Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics in Linköping.
    Matthiesen, Leif
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Clinical Sciences. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center of Paediatrics and Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics in Linköping. Helsingborg Hospital, Helsingborg.
    Duchén, Karel
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Clinical Sciences. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center of Paediatrics and Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Department of Paediatrics in Linköping.
    Nilsson, Lennart J
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Neuro and Inflammation Science. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Heart and Medicine Center, Allergy Center.
    Jenmalm, Maria
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Neuro and Inflammation Science. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    The Placental Immune Milieu is Characterized by a Th2- and Anti-Inflammatory Transcription Profile, Regardless of Maternal Allergy, and Associates with Neonatal Immunity2015In: American Journal of Reproductive Immunology, ISSN 1046-7408, E-ISSN 1600-0897, Vol. 73, no 5, p. 445-459Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    PROBLEM: How maternal allergy affects the systemic and local immunological environment during pregnancy and the immune development of the offspring is unclear.

    METHOD OF STUDY: Expression of 40 genes was quantified by PCR arrays in placenta, peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC), and cord blood mononuclear cells (CBMC) from 7 allergic and 12 non-allergic women and their offspring.

    RESULTS: Placental gene expression was dominated by a Th2-/anti-inflammatory profile, irrespectively of maternal allergy, as compared to gene expression in PBMC. p35 expression in placenta correlated with fetal Tbx21 (ρ = -0.88, P < 0.001) and IL-5 expression in PBMC with fetal galectin1 (ρ = 0.91, P < 0.001). Increased expression of Th2-associated CCL22 in CBMC preceded allergy development.

    CONCLUSIONS: Gene expression locally and systemically during pregnancy was partly associated with the offspring's gene expression, possibly indicating that the immunological milieu is important for fetal immune development. Maternal allergy was not associated with an enhanced Th2 immunity in placenta or PBMC, while a marked prenatal Th2 skewing, shown as increased CCL22 mRNA expression, might contribute to postnatal allergy development.

    Download full text (pdf)
    fulltext
  • 3.
    Abioye, Ajibola I.
    et al.
    Brown Univ, RI 02912 USA.
    McDonald, Emily A.
    Brown Univ, RI 02912 USA.
    Park, Sangshin
    Brown Univ, RI 02912 USA; Univ Seoul, South Korea.
    Joshi, Ayush
    Brown Univ, RI 02912 USA.
    Kurtis, Jonathan D.
    Brown Univ, RI 02912 USA.
    Wu, Hannah
    Brown Univ, RI 02912 USA.
    Pond-Tor, Sunthorn
    Brown Univ, RI 02912 USA.
    Sharma, Surendra
    Brown Univ, RI 02912 USA; Women and Infants Hosp Rhode Isl, RI 02908 USA.
    Ernerudh, Jan
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Neuro and Inflammation Science. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine.
    Baltazar, Palmera
    Remedios Trinidad Romualdez Hosp, Philippines.
    Acosta, Luz P.
    Res Inst Trop Med, Philippines.
    Olveda, Remigio M.
    Res Inst Trop Med, Philippines.
    Tallo, Veronica
    Res Inst Trop Med, Philippines.
    Friedman, Jennifer F.
    Brown Univ, RI 02912 USA.
    Maternal, placental and cord blood cytokines and the risk of adverse birth outcomes among pregnant women infected with Schistosoma japonicum in the Philippines2019In: PLoS Neglected Tropical Diseases, ISSN 1935-2727, E-ISSN 1935-2735, Vol. 13, no 6, article id e0007371Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Background The objectives of this study were to 1) evaluate the influence of treatment with praziquantel on the inflammatory milieu in maternal, placental, and cord blood, 2) assess the extent to which proinflammatory signatures in placental and cord blood impacts birth outcomes, and 3) evaluate the impact of other helminths on the inflammatory micro environment. Methods/Findings This was a secondary analysis of samples from 369 mother-infant pairs participating in a randomized controlled trial of praziquantel given at 12-16 weeks gestation. We performed regression analysis to address our study objectives. In maternal peripheral blood, the concentrations of CXCL8, and TNF receptor I and II decreased from 12 to 32 weeks gestation, while IL-13 increased. Praziquantel treatment did not significantly alter the trajectory of the concentration of any of the cytokines examined. Hookworm infection was associated with elevated placental IL-1, CXCL8 and IFN-gamma. The risk of small-for-gestational age increased with elevated IL-6, IL-10, and CXCL8 in cord blood. The risk of prematurity was increased when cord blood sTNFRI and placental IL-5 were elevated. Conclusions Our study suggests that fetal cytokines, which may be related to infectious disease exposures, contribute to poor intrauterine growth. Additionally, hookworm infection influences cytokine concentrations at the maternal-fetal interface. Clinical Trial Registry number and website ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT00486863). Author summary Schistosomiasis is one of the most prevalent parasitic tropical diseases, and it is primarily treated with the drug praziquantel. This study examined the effects of praziquantel treatment for schistosomiasis and the presence of geohelminth infections during pregnancy on cytokines in maternal, placental, and cord blood, and examined the effects of pro-inflammatory signatures at the maternal-fetal interface on perinatal outcomes. We analyzed the data of 369 mother-infant pairs obtained from a randomized controlled trial of praziquantel given at 12-16 weeks gestation. Praziquantel treatment did not significantly alter the trajectory of the concentration of any of the cytokines examined. Elevated levels of both Th1 and Th2 cytokines were associated with the risk of adverse perinatal outcomes (small-for-gestational age and prematurity). Hookworm coinfection at 12 weeks gestation was, however, related to elevated levels of certain cytokines in the placenta (IL-1, IL-5, CXCL8 and IFN-gamma).

    Download full text (pdf)
    fulltext
  • 4.
    Abioye, Ajibola I.
    et al.
    Brown Univ, RI 02912 USA; Rhode Isl Hosp, RI USA; Rhode Isl Hosp, RI USA.
    Park, Sangshin
    Brown Univ, RI 02912 USA; Rhode Isl Hosp, RI USA; Rhode Isl Hosp, RI USA.
    Ripp, Kelsey
    Brown Univ, RI 02912 USA.
    McDonald, Emily A.
    Brown Univ, RI 02912 USA; Rhode Isl Hosp, RI USA; Rhode Isl Hosp, RI USA.
    Kurtis, Jonathan D.
    Brown Univ, RI 02912 USA; Rhode Isl Hosp, RI USA; Rhode Isl Hosp, RI USA.
    Wu, Hannah
    Brown Univ, RI 02912 USA; Rhode Isl Hosp, RI USA; Rhode Isl Hosp, RI USA.
    Pond-Tor, Sunthorn
    Rhode Isl Hosp, RI USA.
    Sharma, Surendra
    Brown Univ, RI 02912 USA; Women and Infants Hosp Rhode Isl, RI 02908 USA.
    Ernerudh, Jan
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Neuro and Inflammation Science. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine.
    Baltazar, Palmera
    Res Inst Trop Med, Philippines; Remedios Trinidad Romualdez Hosp, Philippines.
    Acosta, Luz P.
    Res Inst Trop Med, Philippines.
    Olveda, Remigio M.
    Res Inst Trop Med, Philippines.
    Tallo, Veronica
    Res Inst Trop Med, Philippines.
    Friedman, Jennifer F.
    Brown Univ, RI 02912 USA; Rhode Isl Hosp, RI USA; Rhode Isl Hosp, RI USA.
    Anemia of Inflammation during Human Pregnancy Does Not Affect Newborn Iron Endowment2018In: Journal of Nutrition, ISSN 0022-3166, E-ISSN 1541-6100, Vol. 148, no 3, p. 427-436Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Background: To our knowledge, no studies have addressed whether maternal anemia of inflammation (AI) affects newborn iron status, and few have addressed risk factors for specific etiologies of maternal anemia. Objectives: The study aims were to evaluate 1) the contribution of AI and iron deficiency anemia (IDA) to newborn iron endowment, 2) hepcidin as a biomarker to distinguish AI from IDA among pregnant women, and 3) risk factors for specific etiologies of maternal anemia. Methods: We measured hematologic biomarkers in maternal blood at 12 and 32 wk of gestation and in cord blood from a randomized trial of praziquantel in 358 pregnant women with Schistosoma japonicum in The Philippines. IDA was defined as anemia with serum ferritin amp;lt; 30 ng/mL and non-IDA (NIDA), largely due to AI, as anemia with ferritin amp;gt;= 30 ng/mL. We identified cutoffs for biomarkers to distinguish IDA from NIDA by using area under the curve (AUC) analyses and examined the impact of different causes of anemia on newborn iron status (primary outcome) by using multivariate regression modeling. Results: Of the 358 mothers, 38% (n = 136) had IDA and 9% (n = 32) had NIDA at 32 wk of gestation. At 32 wk of gestation, serum hepcidin performed better than soluble transferrin receptor (sTfR) in identifying women with NIDA compared with the rest of the cohort (AUCs: 0.75 and 0.70, respectively) and in identifying women with NIDA among women with anemia (0.73 and 0.72, respectively). The cutoff that optimally distinguished women with NIDA from women with IDA in our cohort was 6.1 mu g/L. Maternal IDA, but not NIDA, was associated with significantly lower newborn ferritin (114.4 ng/mL compared with 148.4 mu g/L; P = 0.042). Conclusions: Hepcidin performed better than sTfR in identifying pregnant women with NIDA, but its cost may limit its use. Maternal IDA, but not NIDA, is associated with decreased newborn iron stores, emphasizing the need to identify this cause and provide iron therapy.

  • 5. Order onlineBuy this publication >>
    Ahmad, Awais
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine.
    Autoantibodies in healthy blood donors, rheumatic and autoimmune liver diseases2024Doctoral thesis, comprehensive summary (Other academic)
    Abstract [en]

    Autoimmunity is a common phenomenon where the immune system recognises the body's own tissues. Autoimmunity can lead to disease if tissue damage occurs. Autoimmune diseases affect 5–10% of the global population and in many of these autoantibodies can be detected. The autoantibodies can be detected with several different methods. In this thesis, line immunoassays and fluorescence enzyme immunoassay were used to investigate the presence of autoantibodies in blood donors and various disease groups. Line immunoassays use strips while fluorescence enzyme immunoassay uses wells. The strips and wells are coated with proteins that are allowed to react with serum samples from the patient. In the presence of autoantibodies, either a color change (line immunoassay) or a light reaction (fluorescence enzyme immunoassay) occurs.

    Study I and II: With the EuroLine -Autoimmune Liver Diseases- (IgG) line immunoassay, the presence of autoantibodies associated with autoimmune liver diseases was analysed in blood donors, patients with autoimmune liver diseases and patients with SLE. Autoantibodies could be detected in several blood donors. A very rare autoantibody, anti-LC- 1, was more common in blood donors than in patients with autoimmune liver diseases. Despite the presence of the autoantibodies, no association was seen with abnormal liver values in blood donors or patients with SLE. By raising the cut-off, the number of "false positive" results decreased. However, this could not correct the problem with anti-LC-1, which seems to indicate that there is a problem with the LC-1 antigen so that non-specific reactions are detected. The risk of developing autoimmune liver disease was considered to be low in the SLE patients, as none of these patients developed autoimmune liver disease despite several years of follow-up. Most of the positive findings with the EuroLine immunoassay could not be confirmed with other methods, indicating that this method is very sensitive.

    Study III: With the EuroLine Systemic Sclerosis (Nucleoli) Profile (IgG) line immunoassay, the rare autoantibodies anti-Th/To and anti-NOR90 could be detected as frequently in blood donors as in patients with systemic sclerosis. Most of the other autoantibodies were more common in patients with systemic sclerosis compared to blood donors and other disease groups. Some of these autoantibodies were associated with specific clinical manifestations, including renal involvement in patients with SLE. These findings need to be verified.

    Study IV: Autoantibodies that bind the U1-RNP protein (anti-U1-RNP) can be detected in patients with SLE. Patients with anti-U1-RNP can be further analysed for the presence of autoantibodies against the protein RNP 70kDa (anti-RNP70). However, the clinical value of further analysis of anti-RNP70 is uncertain. In this study, fluorescence enzyme immunoassay was used to analyse anti-U1-RNP positive samples for anti-RNP70 to evaluate whether it added anything of clinical value in SLE patients. Presence of anti-U1-RNP was associated with low white blood cell counts and less organ damage. However, analysis of anti-RNP70 in patients with SLE did not add any additional clinical information.

    Conclusion: Euroline -Autoimmune Liver Diseases- (IgG) and EuroLine Systemic Sclerosis (Nucleoli) Profile (IgG) are tools that are of value in the diagnosis of autoimmune liver diseases and systemic sclerosis, but the methods have high sensitivity which can lead to false positive results. By raising the cut-off, the risk of this can be reduced. Some rare antibodies were found more frequently in blood donors than in patients with the different disease groups, suggesting potential problems with the antigen source. Subtyping of anti-RNP70 in SLE patients with anti-U1-RNP did not add anything of clinical value.

    List of papers
    1. Autoantibodies associated with primary biliary cholangitis are common among patients with systemic lupus erythematosus even in the absence of elevated liver enzymes
    Open this publication in new window or tab >>Autoantibodies associated with primary biliary cholangitis are common among patients with systemic lupus erythematosus even in the absence of elevated liver enzymes
    Show others...
    2021 (English)In: Clinical and Experimental Immunology, ISSN 0009-9104, E-ISSN 1365-2249, Vol. 203, no 1, p. 22-31Article in journal (Refereed) Published
    Abstract [en]

    Knowledge of concomitant autoimmune liver diseases (AILD) is more detailed in primary Sjogrens syndrome (pSS) compared to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Herein, the prevalence of autoantibodies associated with autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) and primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) was investigated in stored sera from patients with SLE (n = 280) and pSS (n = 114). Antibodies against mitochondria (AMA), liver-kidney microsomal (LKM) antigen, smooth muscle (SMA) and anti-nuclear antibodies (ANA) were analysed with immunofluorescence microscopy. In addition, AILD-associated autoantibodies were tested with immunoblot. Prior to sampling, eight SLE (2 center dot 9%) and three pSS (2 center dot 6%) cases were diagnosed with AILD. Among SLE-cases without known AILD (n = 272), 26 (9 center dot 6%) had PBC-associated autoantibodies, 15 (5 center dot 5%) AIH-associated autoantibodies (excluding ANA) and one serological overlap. Most subjects with PBC-associated autoantibodies had liver enzymes within reference limits (22 of 27, 81%) or mild laboratory cholestasis (two of 27, 7 center dot 4%), while one fulfilled the diagnostic PBC-criteria. AMA-M2 detected by immunoblot was the most common PBC-associated autoantibody in SLE (20 of 272, 7 center dot 4%). The prevalence of SMA (4 center dot 4%) was comparable with a healthy reference population, but associated with elevated liver enzymes in four of 12 (25%), none meeting AIH-criteria. The patient with combined AIH/PBC-serology had liver enzymes within reference limits. Among pSS cases without known AILD (n = 111), nine (8 center dot 1%) had PBC-associated, 12 (10 center dot 8%) AIH-associated autoantibodies and two overlapped. PBC-associated autoantibodies were found as frequently in SLE as in pSS but were, with few exceptions, not associated with laboratory signs of liver disease. Overall, AILD-associated autoantibodies were predominantly detected by immunoblot and no significant difference in liver enzymes was found between AILD autoantibody-negative and -positive patients.

    Place, publisher, year, edition, pages
    Wiley-Blackwell Publishing Inc., 2021
    Keywords
    autoantibodies; autoimmune hepatitis; primary biliary cholangitis; Sjogrens syndrome; systemic lupus erythematosus
    National Category
    Gastroenterology and Hepatology
    Identifiers
    urn:nbn:se:liu:diva-170539 (URN)10.1111/cei.13512 (DOI)000573490000001 ()32910463 (PubMedID)2-s2.0-85091690857 (Scopus ID)
    Note

    Funding Agencies|Swedish Rheumatism Association; Region ostergotland (ALF grants); Swedish Society of Medicine; King Gustaf Vs 80-year Anniversary foundation; King Gustaf V and Queen Victorias Freemasons foundation

    Available from: 2020-10-16 Created: 2020-10-16 Last updated: 2024-02-05Bibliographically approved
    2. Autoantibodies Associated with Autoimmune Liver Diseases in a Healthy Population: Evaluation of a Commercial Immunoblot Test
    Open this publication in new window or tab >>Autoantibodies Associated with Autoimmune Liver Diseases in a Healthy Population: Evaluation of a Commercial Immunoblot Test
    Show others...
    2022 (English)In: Diagnostics, ISSN 2075-4418, Vol. 12, no 7, article id 1572Article in journal (Refereed) Published
    Abstract [en]

    Autoantibodies constitute important tools for diagnosing the autoimmune liver diseases (AILD) autoimmune hepatitis and primary biliary cholangitis. The EUROLINE immunoblot assay, detecting multiple specificities, is widely used, but the clinical importance of weakly positive findings is unclear. The manufacturers recommended cut-off was evaluated by investigating AILD-associated autoantibodies in 825 blood donors and 60 confirmed AILD cases. Positive findings were followed up with immunofluorescence microscopy on rat tissue, anti-M2-ELISA, alternative immunoblot assay, and liver function tests. Thirty-six (4.4%) blood donors were positive with EUROLINE. The most common specificities were LC-1 (1.6%), gp210 (1.3%), and AMA-M2 (1.1%). In general, the positive results were higher in patients than in blood donors, whereas anti-LC-1 was higher in blood donors. The liver function tests were slightly elevated in 2 of the 36 immunoblot positive blood donors. The majority of the positive EUROLINE findings could not be confirmed with the follow-up tests. The EUROLINE-Autoimmune Liver Diseases-(IgG) immunoblot detected autoantibodies in 4.4% of blood donors without signs of AILD. Our findings indicate that the recommended cut-off can be raised for most specificities without loss of diagnostic sensitivity. The prevalence of anti-LC-1 among blood donors indicates a problem with the antigen source.

    Place, publisher, year, edition, pages
    MDPI, 2022
    Keywords
    autoimmune liver disease; AIH; PBC; PML; Sp100; gp210; AMA-M2; EUROLINE
    National Category
    Radiology, Nuclear Medicine and Medical Imaging
    Identifiers
    urn:nbn:se:liu:diva-187446 (URN)10.3390/diagnostics12071572 (DOI)000831404600001 ()35885478 (PubMedID)
    Note

    Funding Agencies|Region Ostergotland (ALF grants) [RO932055]

    Available from: 2022-08-23 Created: 2022-08-23 Last updated: 2024-02-05
    3. Autoantibodies associated with systemic sclerosis in three autoimmune diseases imprinted by type I interferon gene dysregulation: a comparison across SLE, primary Sjogrens syndrome and systemic sclerosis
    Open this publication in new window or tab >>Autoantibodies associated with systemic sclerosis in three autoimmune diseases imprinted by type I interferon gene dysregulation: a comparison across SLE, primary Sjogrens syndrome and systemic sclerosis
    Show others...
    2022 (English)In: Lupus Science and Medicine, E-ISSN 2053-8790, Vol. 9, no 1, article id e000732Article in journal (Refereed) Published
    Abstract [en]

    ObjectiveSLE, primary Sjogrens syndrome (pSS) and systemic sclerosis (SSc) are heterogeneous autoimmune diseases with a dysregulated type I interferon (IFN) system. The diseases often show overlapping clinical manifestations, which may result in diagnostic challenges. We asked to which extent SSc-associated autoantibodies are present in SLE and pSS, and whether these link to serum IFN-alpha, clinical phenotypes and sex. Samples with clinical data from patients with SSc and healthy blood donors (HBDs) served as controls. Finally, the diagnostic performance of SSc-associated autoantibodies was evaluated.MethodsSamples from well-characterised subjects with SLE (n=510), pSS (n=116), SSc (n=57) and HBDs (n=236) were analysed using a commercially available immunoassay (EuroLine Systemic Sclerosis Profile (IgG)). IFN-alpha was quantified by ELISA. Self-reported data on Raynauds phenomenon (RP) were available.ResultsWith exceptions for anti-Ro52/SSA and anti-Th/To, SSc-associated autoantibodies were more frequent in SSc than in SLE, pSS and HBDs regardless of sex. IFN-alpha levels correlated with the number of positive SSc-associated autoantibodies (r=0.29, p&lt;0.0001) and associated with Ro52/SSA positivity (p&lt;0.0001). By using data from SLE, SSc and HBDs, RP was significantly associated with topoisomerase I, centromere protein (CENP)-B, RNA polymerase III 11 kDa, RNA polymerase III 155 kDa and PM-Scl100 whereas Ro52/SSA associated inversely with RP. In SLE, CENP-A was associated with immunological disorder, CENP-B with serositis and Ku with lupus nephritis. By combining analysis of ANA (immunofluorescence) with SSc-associated autoantibodies, the diagnostic sensitivity reached 98% and the specificity 33%.ConclusionsThe 13 specificities included in the EuroLine immunoassay are commonly detected in SSc, but they are also frequent among individuals with other diseases imprinted by type I IFNs. These findings are valuable when interpreting serological data on patients with suspected SSc, especially as patients may present with disease manifestations overlapping different rheumatological diseases. In SLE, we observed associations between manifestations and SSc-associated autoantibodies which have not previously been reported.

    Place, publisher, year, edition, pages
    BMJ PUBLISHING GROUP, 2022
    Keywords
    Sjogrens Syndrome; Scleroderma; Systemic; Lupus Erythematosus; Interferon Type I; Autoantibodies
    National Category
    Rheumatology and Autoimmunity
    Identifiers
    urn:nbn:se:liu:diva-191220 (URN)10.1136/lupus-2022-000732 (DOI)000906026900002 ()36581379 (PubMedID)
    Note

    Funding Agencies|King Gustaf V and Queen Victorias Freemasons Foundation; King Gustaf Vs 80-year Anniversary Foundation; Gustafsson Foundation; Swedish Rheumatism Association, Region OEstergoetland (ALF grants)

    Available from: 2023-01-23 Created: 2023-01-23 Last updated: 2024-02-05
    4. Doubtful Clinical Value of Subtyping Anti-U1-RNP Antibodies Regarding the RNP-70 kDa Antigen in Sera of Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
    Open this publication in new window or tab >>Doubtful Clinical Value of Subtyping Anti-U1-RNP Antibodies Regarding the RNP-70 kDa Antigen in Sera of Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
    Show others...
    2023 (English)In: International Journal of Molecular Sciences, ISSN 1661-6596, E-ISSN 1422-0067, Vol. 24, no 12, article id 10398Article in journal (Refereed) Published
    Abstract [en]

    The detection of antinuclear antibodies is central to the diagnosis and prognosis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), primary Sjogrens syndrome (pSS) and mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD). Anti-U1-RNP and anti-RNP70 antibodies were assayed in the sera of patients with SLE (n = 114), pSS (n = 54) and MCTD (n = 12). In the SLE group, 34/114 (30%) were anti-U1-RNP positive, and 21/114 (18%) were both anti-RNP70 positive and anti-U1-RNP positive. In the MCTD group, 10/12 (83%) were anti-U1-RNP positive, and 9/12 (75%) were anti-RNP70 positive. Only one individual with pSS was antibody positive (for both anti-U1-RNP and anti-RNP70). All anti-RNP70-positive samples were also anti-U1-RNP positive. Anti-U1-RNP-positive subjects with SLE were younger (p &lt; 0.0001); showed lower concentrations of complement protein 3 (p = 0.03); had lower eosinophil (p = 0.0005), lymphocyte (p = 0.006) and monocyte (p = 0.03) counts; and had accrued less organ damage (p = 0.006) than the anti-U1-RNP-negative SLE patients. However, we observed no significant clinical or laboratory parameter differences between the anti-U1-RNP-positive individuals with/without anti-RNP70 in the SLE group. In conclusion, anti-RNP70 antibodies are not exclusive to MCTD but are rarely detected in pSS and healthy individuals. In SLE, anti-U1-RNP antibodies are associated with a clinical phenotype that resembles MCTD, with hematologic involvement and less damage accrual. Based on our results, the clinical value of subtyping anti-RNP70 in anti-U1-RNP-positive sera appears to be of limited value.

    Place, publisher, year, edition, pages
    MDPI, 2023
    Keywords
    autoantibodies; mixed connective tissue disease; primary Sjogrens syndrome; small nuclear ribonucleoprotein antibodies; systemic lupus erythematosus
    National Category
    Dentistry
    Identifiers
    urn:nbn:se:liu:diva-196857 (URN)10.3390/ijms241210398 (DOI)001014922500001 ()37373545 (PubMedID)
    Available from: 2023-08-24 Created: 2023-08-24 Last updated: 2024-02-05
    Download full text (pdf)
    fulltext
    Download (png)
    presentationsbild
  • 6.
    Ahmad, Awais
    et al.
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine.
    Brylid, Andre
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine.
    Dahle, Charlotte
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine.
    Saleh, Muna Atallah
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Medicine Center, Department of Rheumatology.
    Dahlström, Örjan
    Linköping University, Department of Behavioural Sciences and Learning, Psychology. Linköping University, Faculty of Arts and Sciences. Linköping University, The Swedish Institute for Disability Research.
    Enocsson, Helena
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Medicine Center, Department of Rheumatology.
    Sjöwall, Christopher
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Medicine Center, Department of Rheumatology.
    Doubtful Clinical Value of Subtyping Anti-U1-RNP Antibodies Regarding the RNP-70 kDa Antigen in Sera of Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus2023In: International Journal of Molecular Sciences, ISSN 1661-6596, E-ISSN 1422-0067, Vol. 24, no 12, article id 10398Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    The detection of antinuclear antibodies is central to the diagnosis and prognosis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), primary Sjogrens syndrome (pSS) and mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD). Anti-U1-RNP and anti-RNP70 antibodies were assayed in the sera of patients with SLE (n = 114), pSS (n = 54) and MCTD (n = 12). In the SLE group, 34/114 (30%) were anti-U1-RNP positive, and 21/114 (18%) were both anti-RNP70 positive and anti-U1-RNP positive. In the MCTD group, 10/12 (83%) were anti-U1-RNP positive, and 9/12 (75%) were anti-RNP70 positive. Only one individual with pSS was antibody positive (for both anti-U1-RNP and anti-RNP70). All anti-RNP70-positive samples were also anti-U1-RNP positive. Anti-U1-RNP-positive subjects with SLE were younger (p &lt; 0.0001); showed lower concentrations of complement protein 3 (p = 0.03); had lower eosinophil (p = 0.0005), lymphocyte (p = 0.006) and monocyte (p = 0.03) counts; and had accrued less organ damage (p = 0.006) than the anti-U1-RNP-negative SLE patients. However, we observed no significant clinical or laboratory parameter differences between the anti-U1-RNP-positive individuals with/without anti-RNP70 in the SLE group. In conclusion, anti-RNP70 antibodies are not exclusive to MCTD but are rarely detected in pSS and healthy individuals. In SLE, anti-U1-RNP antibodies are associated with a clinical phenotype that resembles MCTD, with hematologic involvement and less damage accrual. Based on our results, the clinical value of subtyping anti-RNP70 in anti-U1-RNP-positive sera appears to be of limited value.

    Download full text (pdf)
    fulltext
  • 7.
    Ahmad, Awais
    et al.
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine.
    Dahle, Charlotte
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine.
    Rönnelid, Johan
    Uppsala Univ, Sweden.
    Sjöwall, Christopher
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Medicine Center, Department of Rheumatology.
    Kechagias, Stergios
    Linköping University, Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Division of Diagnostics and Specialist Medicine. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Surgery, Orthopaedics and Cancer Treatment, Mag- tarmmedicinska kliniken.
    Autoantibodies Associated with Autoimmune Liver Diseases in a Healthy Population: Evaluation of a Commercial Immunoblot Test2022In: Diagnostics, ISSN 2075-4418, Vol. 12, no 7, article id 1572Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Autoantibodies constitute important tools for diagnosing the autoimmune liver diseases (AILD) autoimmune hepatitis and primary biliary cholangitis. The EUROLINE immunoblot assay, detecting multiple specificities, is widely used, but the clinical importance of weakly positive findings is unclear. The manufacturers recommended cut-off was evaluated by investigating AILD-associated autoantibodies in 825 blood donors and 60 confirmed AILD cases. Positive findings were followed up with immunofluorescence microscopy on rat tissue, anti-M2-ELISA, alternative immunoblot assay, and liver function tests. Thirty-six (4.4%) blood donors were positive with EUROLINE. The most common specificities were LC-1 (1.6%), gp210 (1.3%), and AMA-M2 (1.1%). In general, the positive results were higher in patients than in blood donors, whereas anti-LC-1 was higher in blood donors. The liver function tests were slightly elevated in 2 of the 36 immunoblot positive blood donors. The majority of the positive EUROLINE findings could not be confirmed with the follow-up tests. The EUROLINE-Autoimmune Liver Diseases-(IgG) immunoblot detected autoantibodies in 4.4% of blood donors without signs of AILD. Our findings indicate that the recommended cut-off can be raised for most specificities without loss of diagnostic sensitivity. The prevalence of anti-LC-1 among blood donors indicates a problem with the antigen source.

    Download full text (pdf)
    fulltext
  • 8.
    Ahmad, Awais
    et al.
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine.
    Heijke, R.
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Medicine Center, Department of Rheumatology.
    Eriksson, Per
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Medicine Center, Department of Rheumatology.
    Wirestam, Lina
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Medicine Center, Department of Rheumatology.
    Kechagias, Stergios
    Linköping University, Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Division of Diagnostics and Specialist Medicine. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Surgery, Orthopaedics and Cancer Treatment, Mag- tarmmedicinska kliniken.
    Dahle, Charlotte
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine.
    Sjöwall, Christopher
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Medicine Center, Department of Rheumatology.
    Autoantibodies associated with primary biliary cholangitis are common among patients with systemic lupus erythematosus even in the absence of elevated liver enzymes2021In: Clinical and Experimental Immunology, ISSN 0009-9104, E-ISSN 1365-2249, Vol. 203, no 1, p. 22-31Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Knowledge of concomitant autoimmune liver diseases (AILD) is more detailed in primary Sjogrens syndrome (pSS) compared to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Herein, the prevalence of autoantibodies associated with autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) and primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) was investigated in stored sera from patients with SLE (n = 280) and pSS (n = 114). Antibodies against mitochondria (AMA), liver-kidney microsomal (LKM) antigen, smooth muscle (SMA) and anti-nuclear antibodies (ANA) were analysed with immunofluorescence microscopy. In addition, AILD-associated autoantibodies were tested with immunoblot. Prior to sampling, eight SLE (2 center dot 9%) and three pSS (2 center dot 6%) cases were diagnosed with AILD. Among SLE-cases without known AILD (n = 272), 26 (9 center dot 6%) had PBC-associated autoantibodies, 15 (5 center dot 5%) AIH-associated autoantibodies (excluding ANA) and one serological overlap. Most subjects with PBC-associated autoantibodies had liver enzymes within reference limits (22 of 27, 81%) or mild laboratory cholestasis (two of 27, 7 center dot 4%), while one fulfilled the diagnostic PBC-criteria. AMA-M2 detected by immunoblot was the most common PBC-associated autoantibody in SLE (20 of 272, 7 center dot 4%). The prevalence of SMA (4 center dot 4%) was comparable with a healthy reference population, but associated with elevated liver enzymes in four of 12 (25%), none meeting AIH-criteria. The patient with combined AIH/PBC-serology had liver enzymes within reference limits. Among pSS cases without known AILD (n = 111), nine (8 center dot 1%) had PBC-associated, 12 (10 center dot 8%) AIH-associated autoantibodies and two overlapped. PBC-associated autoantibodies were found as frequently in SLE as in pSS but were, with few exceptions, not associated with laboratory signs of liver disease. Overall, AILD-associated autoantibodies were predominantly detected by immunoblot and no significant difference in liver enzymes was found between AILD autoantibody-negative and -positive patients.

    Download full text (pdf)
    fulltext
  • 9.
    Andraos, Rama
    et al.
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Medicine Center, Department of Rheumatology.
    Ahmad, Awais
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine.
    Eriksson, Per
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Medicine Center, Department of Rheumatology.
    Dahlström, Örjan
    Linköping University, Department of Behavioural Sciences and Learning, Psychology. Linköping University, Faculty of Arts and Sciences. Linköping University, The Swedish Institute for Disability Research.
    Wirestam, Lina
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Medicine Center, Department of Rheumatology.
    Dahle, Charlotte
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine.
    Hesselstrand, Roger
    Lund Univ, Sweden.
    Bengtsson, Anders A.
    Lund Univ, Sweden.
    Jonsen, Andreas
    Lund Univ, Sweden.
    Andreasson, Kristofer
    Lund Univ, Sweden.
    Sjöwall, Christopher
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Medicine Center, Department of Rheumatology.
    Autoantibodies associated with systemic sclerosis in three autoimmune diseases imprinted by type I interferon gene dysregulation: a comparison across SLE, primary Sjogrens syndrome and systemic sclerosis2022In: Lupus Science and Medicine, E-ISSN 2053-8790, Vol. 9, no 1, article id e000732Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    ObjectiveSLE, primary Sjogrens syndrome (pSS) and systemic sclerosis (SSc) are heterogeneous autoimmune diseases with a dysregulated type I interferon (IFN) system. The diseases often show overlapping clinical manifestations, which may result in diagnostic challenges. We asked to which extent SSc-associated autoantibodies are present in SLE and pSS, and whether these link to serum IFN-alpha, clinical phenotypes and sex. Samples with clinical data from patients with SSc and healthy blood donors (HBDs) served as controls. Finally, the diagnostic performance of SSc-associated autoantibodies was evaluated.MethodsSamples from well-characterised subjects with SLE (n=510), pSS (n=116), SSc (n=57) and HBDs (n=236) were analysed using a commercially available immunoassay (EuroLine Systemic Sclerosis Profile (IgG)). IFN-alpha was quantified by ELISA. Self-reported data on Raynauds phenomenon (RP) were available.ResultsWith exceptions for anti-Ro52/SSA and anti-Th/To, SSc-associated autoantibodies were more frequent in SSc than in SLE, pSS and HBDs regardless of sex. IFN-alpha levels correlated with the number of positive SSc-associated autoantibodies (r=0.29, p&lt;0.0001) and associated with Ro52/SSA positivity (p&lt;0.0001). By using data from SLE, SSc and HBDs, RP was significantly associated with topoisomerase I, centromere protein (CENP)-B, RNA polymerase III 11 kDa, RNA polymerase III 155 kDa and PM-Scl100 whereas Ro52/SSA associated inversely with RP. In SLE, CENP-A was associated with immunological disorder, CENP-B with serositis and Ku with lupus nephritis. By combining analysis of ANA (immunofluorescence) with SSc-associated autoantibodies, the diagnostic sensitivity reached 98% and the specificity 33%.ConclusionsThe 13 specificities included in the EuroLine immunoassay are commonly detected in SSc, but they are also frequent among individuals with other diseases imprinted by type I IFNs. These findings are valuable when interpreting serological data on patients with suspected SSc, especially as patients may present with disease manifestations overlapping different rheumatological diseases. In SLE, we observed associations between manifestations and SSc-associated autoantibodies which have not previously been reported.

    Download full text (pdf)
    fulltext
  • 10.
    Andraos, Rama
    et al.
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Medicine Center, Department of Rheumatology.
    Ahmad, Awais
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine.
    Wirestam, Lina
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Dahle, Charlotte
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine.
    Frodlund, Martina
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Medicine Center, Department of Rheumatology.
    Ronnelid, Johan
    Uppsala Univ, Sweden.
    Kastbom, Alf
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Medicine Center, Department of Rheumatology.
    Sjöwall, Christopher
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Medicine Center, Department of Rheumatology.
    Screening for autoimmune diseases in apparently healthy antinuclear antibody positive individuals2024In: Frontiers in Medicine, E-ISSN 2296-858X, Vol. 11, article id 1455673Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Background Anti-nuclear antibodies (ANA) assessed by immunofluorescence (IF) microscopy are associated with systemic autoimmune rheumatic diseases (SARD) and can be detected years before onset of clinical symptoms. Recent data indicate dysregulation of the immune system with increased levels of proinflammatory cytokines, including type I interferons (IFN), in ANA-positive versus ANA-negative individuals. Herein, the aims were to investigate IF-ANA, ANA fine specificities, and IFN-alpha protein levels in relation to self-reported symptoms, as well as clinical signs, of SARD in a large group of healthy blood donors (HBD).Methods Sera from 825 HBD (48.8% females) were included. IF-ANA was assessed, using HEp-2 cells, according to the routine at the accredited laboratory of Clinical Immunology, Link & ouml;ping University Hospital. All samples were analyzed for IgG-ANA fine specificities using addressable laser bead assay (ALBIA) at the same laboratory. IFN-alpha was determined using ELISA. Antibody-positive individuals, and their sex- and age-matched antibody-negative controls, were asked to fill a questionnaire regarding symptoms associated with SARD.Results In total, 130 HBD (15.8%) were positive with IF-ANA and/or ALBIA. Anti-U1RNP was significantly more common among women. Generally, self-reported symptoms correlated poorly with IF-ANA and/or ALBIA results. Two females with high levels of Ro60/SSA, Ro52/SSA and IFN-alpha reported mild sicca symptoms and were diagnosed with Sj & ouml;gren's disease after clinical evaluation.Conclusion A considerable proportion of apparently HBD are autoantibody positive, but without clear association to self-reported symptoms. Nevertheless, the combination of autoantibodies, relevant symptoms and high IFN-alpha levels identified the small proportion of individuals with SARD in the study population.

  • 11.
    Appelgren, Daniel
    et al.
    Linköping University, Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Division of Drug Research. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Dahle, Charlotte
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Neuro and Inflammation Science. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine.
    Knopf, Jasmin
    Friedrich Alexander Univ Erlangen Nurnberg FAU, Germany.
    Bilyy, Rostyslav
    Friedrich Alexander Univ Erlangen Nurnberg FAU, Germany; Danylo Halytsky Lviv Natl Med Univ, Ukraine.
    Vovk, Volodymyr
    Danylo Halytsky Lviv Natl Med Univ, Ukraine.
    Sundgren, Pia C.
    Lund Univ, Sweden.
    Bengtsson, Anders A.
    Lund Univ, Sweden.
    Wetterö, Jonas
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Neuro and Inflammation Science. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Munoz, Luis E.
    Friedrich Alexander Univ Erlangen Nurnberg FAU, Germany.
    Herrmann, Martin
    Friedrich Alexander Univ Erlangen Nurnberg FAU, Germany.
    Höög, Anders
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Divison of Neurobiology. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Clinical pathology. Karolinska Inst, Sweden.
    Sjöwall, Christopher
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Neuro and Inflammation Science. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Heart and Medicine Center, Department of Rheumatology.
    Active NET formation in Libman-Sacks endocarditis without antiphospholipid antibodies: A dramatic onset of systemic lupus erythematosus2018In: Autoimmunity, ISSN 0891-6934, E-ISSN 1607-842X, Vol. 51, no 6, p. 310-318Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Although neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) have been highlighted in several systemic inflammatory diseases, their clinical correlates and potential pathological role remain obscure. Herein, we describe a dramatic onset of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) with clear-cut pathogenic implications for neutrophils and NET formation in a young woman with cardiac (Libman-Sacks endocarditis) and central nervous system (psychosis and seizures) involvement. Despite extensive search, circulating antiphospholipid autoantibodies, a hallmark of Libman-Sacks endocarditis, could not be detected. Instead, we observed active NET formation in the tissue of the mitral valve, as well as in the circulation. Levels of NET remnants were significantly higher in serially obtained sera from the patient compared with sex-matched blood donors (p=.0011), and showed a non-significant but substantial correlation with blood neutrophil counts (r=0.65, p=.16). The specific neutrophil elastase activity measured in serum seemed to be modulated by the provided immunosuppressive treatment. In addition, we found anti-Ro60/SSA antibodies in the cerebrospinal fluid of the patient but not NET remnants or increased elastase activity. This case illustrates that different disease mechanisms mediated via autoantibodies can occur simultaneously in SLE. NET formation with release of cytotoxic NET remnants is a candidate player in the pathogenesis of this non-canonical form of Libman-Sacks endocarditis occurring in the absence of traditional antiphospholipid autoantibodies. The case description includes longitudinal results with clinical follow-up data and a discussion of the potential roles of NETs in SLE.

    Download full text (pdf)
    fulltext
  • 12.
    Appelgren, Daniel
    et al.
    Linköping University, Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Division of Drug Research. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Eriksson, Per
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Neuro and Inflammation Science. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Heart and Medicine Center, Department of Rheumatology.
    Ernerudh, Jan
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Neuro and Inflammation Science. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine.
    Segelmark, Mårten
    Linköping University, Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Division of Drug Research. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Heart and Medicine Center, Department of Nephrology. Lund Univ, Sweden; Skane Univ Hosp, Sweden.
    Marginal-Zone B-Cells Are Main Producers of IgM in Humans, and Are Reduced in Patients With Autoimmune Vasculitis2018In: Frontiers in Immunology, E-ISSN 1664-3224, Vol. 9, article id 2242Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    In mice, B1 and marginal zone (MZ) B-cells play an important role in prevention of autoimmunity through production of regulatory cytokines and natural antibodies. There is limited knowledge about the human counterparts of these cells. We therefore investigated functions of MZ-like B-cells and the frequency of circulating MZ-like and Bl-like B-cells in healthy controls (HC), as well as in patients with autoimmune vasculitis to learn more about the role of these cells in autoimmune disease. After stimulation with CpG oligodeoxynucleotides (ODN) of class B in vitro, MZ-like B-cells were the main producers of IgM whereas switched memory B-cells primarily produced IgG and IgA. TNF and IL-10 were produced by both MZ-like and switched memory B-cells. Neither antibody nor TNF/IL-10 production by the B-cell subsets differed between patients and HC. Patients with autoimmune vasculitis, irrespective of disease activity, had lower percentage and absolute numbers of circulating MZ-like B-cells, and lower absolute numbers of B1-like B-cells. The percentage of B1-like B-cells was reduced during active disease. These findings remained significant when the analysis was confined to active treatment-naive patients (disease onset).Our results suggest that human innate-like B-cells might have a physiological role in prevention of autoimmunity.

    Download full text (pdf)
    fulltext
  • 13.
    Appelgren, Daniel
    et al.
    Linköping University, Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Division of Diagnostics and Specialist Medicine. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Puli, Srinivasulu
    Department of Clinical Sciences in Lund, Nephrology, Lund University and Skåne University Hospital, Lund, Sweden.
    Hellmark, Thomas
    Department of Clinical Sciences in Lund, Nephrology, Lund University and Skåne University Hospital, Lund, Sweden.
    Pochard, Pierre
    LBAI, UMR1227, Univ Brest, Inserm, CHU de Brest, Brest, France.
    Pers, Jacques-Olivier
    LBAI, UMR1227, Univ Brest, Inserm, Brest, France.
    Ernerudh, Jan
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine.
    Eriksson, Per
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Medicine Center, Department of Rheumatology.
    Segelmark, Mårten
    Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Linköping University, Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Division of Diagnostics and Specialist Medicine. Region Östergötland, Medicine Center, Department of Nephrology. Department of Clinical Sciences in Lund, Nephrology, Lund University and Skåne University Hospital, Lund, Sweden.
    Regulatory B cells are reduced in the blood in patients with granulomatosis with polyangiitis, and fail to regulate T-cell IFN-γproduction2023In: Clinical and Experimental Immunology, ISSN 0009-9104, E-ISSN 1365-2249, Vol. 213, no 2, p. 190-201Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Regulatory B (Breg) cells can dampen inflammation, autoreactivity, and transplant rejection. We investigated the frequencies, phenotypes, and function of Breg cells in granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) to gain further knowledge as to whether there are numerical alterations or limitations of their ability to regulate T-cell function. Frequencies and phenotypes of CD24hiCD27+ and CD24hiCD38hi B-cells in the blood were determined with flow cytometry in 37 GPA patients (22 in remission and 15 with active disease) and 31 healthy controls (HC). A co-culture model was used to study the capacity of Breg cells to regulate T-cell activation and proliferation in cells from 10 GPA patients in remission and 12 HC. T-cell cytokine production in vitro and levels in plasma were determined with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Frequencies of CD24hiCD27+ B-cells were reduced both during active disease and remission compared with HC (P = 0.005 and P = 0.010, respectively), whereas CD24hiCD38hi B-cells did not differ. Patient CD24hiCD27+ B-cells exhibited decreased expression of CD25 but increased expression of PD-L1 and PD-L2 during remission. B-cells from GPA patients regulated T-cell proliferation but failed to regulate interferon (IFN)-γproduction (median T-cells alone 222 ng/ml vs. T-cells + B-cells 207 ng/ml, P = 0.426). IFN-γwas also elevated in patient plasma samples (P = 0.016). In conclusion, GPA patients exhibit altered numbers and phenotypes of CD24hiCD27+ B-cells. This is accompanied by a disability to control T-cell production of Th1-type cytokines during remission, which might be of fundamental importance for the granulomatous inflammation that characterizes the chronic phase of this disease. © 2023 The Author(s). Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the British Society for Immunology.

    Download full text (pdf)
    fulltext
  • 14.
    Auvinen, Marja-Kaisa
    et al.
    Uppsala Univ Hosp, Sweden.
    Zhao, Jingcheng
    Karolinska Inst, Sweden.
    Lassen, Ewa
    Umea Univ Hosp, Sweden.
    Lubenow, Norbert
    Uppsala Univ Hosp, Sweden.
    Seger-Mollén, Agneta
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine.
    Watz, Emma
    Karolinska Univ Hosp, Sweden; Karolinska Inst, Sweden.
    Wikman, Agneta
    Karolinska Univ Hosp, Sweden; Karolinska Inst, Sweden.
    Edgren, Gustaf
    Karolinska Inst, Sweden; Soder Sjukhuset, Sweden.
    Patterns of blood use in Sweden from 2008 to 2017: A nationwide cohort study2020In: Transfusion, ISSN 0041-1132, E-ISSN 1537-2995, Vol. 60, no 11, p. 2529-2536Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Background Transfusion patterns in Sweden have not been characterized on a nationwide level. Study Design and Methods We conducted a nationwide descriptive cohort study in Sweden from 2008 to 2017. Data on blood donors, donations, component manufacture, transfusions, and transfused patients were extracted from Swedish portion of the Scandinavian Donations and Transfusions (SCANDAT3-S) database. Results A total of 708 436 patients received 5 587 684 red cell, plasma, or platelet transfusions during the study period. The age-standardized transfusion rate decreased markedly during the study period for red cell units (from 53 to 39 units/1000 persons) and plasma units (from 11 to 4.9 units/1000 persons), but remained relatively constant for platelet concentrates. The transfusion rate was 30%-40% higher in males than in females in the first year of life, and higher in males over 45 years than in females. Between age 20 and 45, the majority of red cells were transfused to female patients with obstetric indications, whereas trauma was the predominant indication for male contemporaries. In females over 80 years, the largest proportion of red cells were administered due to trauma. Overall, hematological patients received 36% of all platelet units. There were large regional differences in transfusion rates for red cell units, ranging from less than 30 to greater than 60/1000 persons. Conclusion Transfusion rates in Sweden remain high but have decreased strikingly during the study period - with the exception of platelet transfusions. Based on the available data, it is difficult to draw firm conclusions about whether transfusion rates can be further reduced.

  • 15.
    Badam, Tejaswi
    et al.
    Linköping University, Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Bioinformatics. Linköping University, Faculty of Science & Engineering. Skovde Univ, Sweden.
    Hellberg, Sandra
    Linköping University, Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Bioinformatics. Linköping University, Faculty of Science & Engineering.
    Bhai Mehta, Ratnesh
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Lechner-Scott, Jeannette
    Univ Newcastle, Australia; Hunter Med Res Inst, Australia; John Hunter Hosp, Australia.
    Lea, Rodney A.
    Univ Newcastle, Australia; Hunter Med Res Inst, Australia; Queensland Univ Technol, Australia.
    Tost, Jorg
    CEA Inst Biol Francois Jacob, France.
    Mariette, Xavier
    Univ Paris Saclay, France.
    Svensson-Arvelund, Judit
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Nestor, Colm
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Children's and Women's Health. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Benson, Mikael
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Children's and Women's Health. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center of Paediatrics and Gynaecology and Obstetrics, H.K.H. Kronprinsessan Victorias barn- och ungdomssjukhus.
    Berg, Göran
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Children's and Women's Health. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center of Paediatrics and Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics in Linköping.
    Jenmalm, Maria
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Gustafsson, Mika
    Linköping University, Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Bioinformatics. Linköping University, Faculty of Science & Engineering.
    Ernerudh, Jan
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine.
    CD4(+) T-cell DNA methylation changes during pregnancy significantly correlate with disease-associated methylation changes in autoimmune diseases2022In: Epigenetics, ISSN 1559-2294, E-ISSN 1559-2308, Vol. 17, no 9, p. 1040-1055Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Epigenetics may play a central, yet unexplored, role in the profound changes that the maternal immune system undergoes during pregnancy and could be involved in the pregnancy-induced modulation of several autoimmune diseases. We investigated changes in the methylome in isolated circulating CD4(+) T-cells in non-pregnant and pregnant women, during the 1(st) and 2(nd) trimester, using the Illumina Infinium Human Methylation 450K array, and explored how these changes were related to autoimmune diseases that are known to be affected during pregnancy. Pregnancy was associated with several hundreds of methylation differences, particularly during the 2(nd) trimester. A network-based modular approach identified several genes, e.g., CD28, FYN, VAV1 and pathways related to T-cell signalling and activation, highlighting T-cell regulation as a central component of the observed methylation alterations. The identified pregnancy module was significantly enriched for disease-associated methylation changes related to multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus. A negative correlation between pregnancy-associated methylation changes and disease-associated changes was found for multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis, diseases that are known to improve during pregnancy whereas a positive correlation was found for systemic lupus erythematosus, a disease that instead worsens during pregnancy. Thus, the directionality of the observed changes is in line with the previously observed effect of pregnancy on disease activity. Our systems medicine approach supports the importance of the methylome in immune regulation of T-cells during pregnancy. Our findings highlight the relevance of using pregnancy as a model for understanding and identifying disease-related mechanisms involved in the modulation of autoimmune diseases.

    Download full text (pdf)
    fulltext
  • 16.
    Banch Clausen, Frederik
    et al.
    Copenhagen Univ Hosp, Denmark; Natl Univ Singapore, Singapore.
    Barrett, Angela Natalie
    Copenhagen Univ Hosp, Denmark; Natl Univ Singapore, Singapore.
    Nyström, Sofia N. (Contributor)
    Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine. Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Hematopoiesis and Developmental Biology.
    Noninvasive fetal RHD genotyping to guide targeted anti-D prophylaxis-an external quality assessment workshop2019In: Vox Sanguinis, ISSN 0042-9007, E-ISSN 1423-0410, Vol. 114, no 4, p. 386-393Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Background and Objectives Fetal RHD genotyping of cell-free fetal DNA from RhD-negative pregnant women can be used to guide targeted antenatal and postnatal anti-D prophylaxis for the prevention of RhD immunization. To assure the quality of clinical testing, we conducted an external quality assessment workshop with the participation of 28 laboratories. Materials and Methods Aliquots of pooled maternal plasma were sent to each laboratory. One sample was positive, and the second sample was negative for fetal RHD, verified by pre-workshop testing using quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) analysis of RHD exons 4, 5, 7 and 10. Plasma samples were shipped at room temperature. A reporting scheme was supplied for data collection, including questions regarding the methodological setup, results and clinical recommendations. Different methodological approaches were used, all employing qPCR with a total of eight different combinations of RHD exon targets. The samples were tested blindly. Results Fetal RHD genotyping was performed with no false-negative and no false-positive results. One inconclusive result was reported for the RHD-positive sample, and four inconclusive results were reported for the RHD-negative sample. All clinical conclusions were satisfactory. Conclusion This external quality assessment workshop demonstrates that despite the different approaches taken to perform the clinical assays, fetal RHD genotyping is a reliable laboratory assay to guide targeted use of Rh prophylaxis in a clinical setting.

  • 17.
    Barcenilla, Hugo
    et al.
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Children's and Women's health. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Åkerman, Linda
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Children's and Women's health. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine.
    Pihl, Mikael
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Hematopoiesis and Developmental Biology. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Ludvigsson, Johnny
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Children's and Women's health. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center of Paediatrics and Gynaecology and Obstetrics, H.K.H. Kronprinsessan Victorias barn- och ungdomssjukhus Linköping/Motala.
    Casas, Rosaura
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Children's and Women's health. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Mass Cytometry Identifies Distinct Subsets of Regulatory T Cells and Natural Killer Cells Associated With High Risk for Type 1 Diabetes2019In: Frontiers in Immunology, E-ISSN 1664-3224, Vol. 10, article id 982Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is characterized by autoimmune destruction of insulin producing beta-cells. The time from onset of islet autoimmunity to manifest clinical disease can vary widely in length, and it is fairly uncharacterized both clinically and immunologically. In the current study, peripheral blood mononuclear cells from autoantibody-positive children with high risk for T1D, and from age-matched healthy individuals, were analyzed by mass cytometry using a panel of 32 antibodies. Surface markers were chosen to identify multiple cell types including T, B, NK, monocytes, and DC, and antibodies specific for identification of differentiation, activation and functional markers were also included in the panel. By applying dimensional reduction and computational unsupervised clustering approaches, we delineated in an unbiased fashion 132 phenotypically distinct subsets within the major immune cell populations. We were able to identify an effector memory Treg subset expressing HLA-DR, CCR4, CCR6, CXCR3, and GATA3 that was increased in the high-risk group. In addition, two subsets of NK cells defined by CD16(+) CD8(+) CXCR3(+) and CD16(+) CD8(+) CXCR3(+) CD11c(+) were also higher in the same subjects. High-risk individuals did not show impaired glucose tolerance at the time of sampling, suggesting that the changes observed were not the result of metabolic imbalance, and might be potential biomarkers predictive of T1D.

    Download full text (pdf)
    fulltext
  • 18.
    Bergström, Ida
    et al.
    Linköping University, Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine.
    Lundberg, Anna
    Linköping University, Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Jönsson, Simon
    Linköping University, Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Sarndahl, Eva
    Örebro University, Sweden.
    Ernerudh, Jan
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Neuro and Inflammation Science. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine.
    Jonasson, Lena
    Linköping University, Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Heart and Medicine Center, Department of Cardiology in Linköping.
    Annexin A1 in blood mononuclear cells from patients with coronary artery disease: Its association with inflammatory status and glucocorticoid sensitivity2017In: PLOS ONE, E-ISSN 1932-6203, Vol. 12, no 3, article id e0174177Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Annexin A1 (AnxA1) is a key player in resolution of inflammation and a mediator of glucocorticoid actions. In atherosclerotic tissue, increased expression of AnxA1 has been associated with protective plaque-stabilizing effects. Here, we investigated the expression of AnxA1 in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). Blood was collected from 57 patients with stable CAD (SCAD) and 41 healthy controls. We also included a minor group (n = 10) with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). AnxA1 mRNA was measured in PBMCs. Expression of AnxA1 protein (total and surface-bound) and glucocorticoid receptors (GR) were detected in PBMC subsets by flow cytometry. Also, salivary cortisol, interleukin(IL)-6 and IL-10 in plasma, and LPS-induced cytokine secretion from PBMCs, with or without dexamethasone, were assessed. AnxA1 mRNA was found to be slightly increased in PBMCs from SCAD patients compared with controls. However, protein expression of AnxA1 or GRs in PBMC subsets did not differ between SCAD patients and controls, despite SCAD patients showing a more proinflammatory cytokine profile ex vivo. Only surface expression of AnxA1 on monocytes correlated with dexamethasone-mediated suppression of cytokines. In ACS patients, a marked activation of AnxA1 was seen involving both gene expression and translocation of protein to cell surface probably reflecting a rapid glucocorticoid action modulating the acute inflammatory response in ACS. To conclude, surface expression of AnxA1 on monocytes may reflect the degree of glucocorticoid sensitivity. Speculatively, "normal" surface expression of AnxA1 indicates that anti-inflammatory capacity is impaired in SCAD patients.

    Download full text (pdf)
    fulltext
  • 19.
    Berlin, Gösta
    et al.
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Neuro and Inflammation Science. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine.
    Cherif, Honar
    Akademiska sjukhuset - Hematologiska kliniken Uppsala, Sweden Akademiska sjukhuset - Hematologiska kliniken Uppsala, Sweden.
    Knutson, Folke
    Akademiska sjukhuset - Klinisk immunologi och transfusionsmedicin Uppsala, Sweden Akademiska sjukhuset - Klinisk immunologi och transfusionsmedicin Uppsala, Sweden.
    Mattsson, Jonas
    Karolinska Universitetssjukhuset - Centrum för allogen stamcellstransplantation Stockholm, Sweden .
    Axdorph Nygell, Ulla
    Karolinska Universitetssjukhuset - Klinisk immunologi och transfusionsmedicin Stockholm, Sweden .
    Granulocyttransfusion bör övervägas vid neutropeni och allvarlig infektion [Granulocyte transfusion – when and how should it be used?]2018In: Läkartidningen, ISSN 0023-7205, E-ISSN 1652-7518, Vol. 115, article id EXUUArticle, review/survey (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    There are no randomized controlled trials proving the clinical benefit of granulocyte transfusions. However, clinical experience and a number of case studies suggest that granulocyte transfusions may be life-saving in certain situations. In our opinion granulocyte transfusions should be considered for patients with profound neutropenia and severe, life-threatening infection not responding to antibiotic or antifungal therapy. Since the clinical effect seems to be dose-dependent, the granulocyte concentrate should contain a large number of cells, which usually means that the donor should be mobilized with steroids and G-CSF. Regular blood donors as well as relatives to the patient can be used for granulocyte donations with apheresis technique after information of the process. Granulocyte transfusion should be given daily as long as the indication remains. The clinical efficacy of the transfusions should be evaluated daily.

  • 20.
    Berlin, Gösta
    et al.
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Neuro and Inflammation Science. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine.
    Cherif, Honar
    Akademiska sjukhuset - Hematologiska kliniken Uppsala, Sweden Akademiska sjukhuset - Hematologiska kliniken Uppsala, Sweden.
    Knutson, Folke
    Akademiska sjukhuset - Klinisk immunologi och transfusionsmedicin Uppsala, Sweden Akademiska sjukhuset - Klinisk immunologi och transfusionsmedicin Uppsala, Sweden.
    Mattsson, Jonas
    Karolinska Universitetssjukhuset - Centrum för allogen stamcellstransplantation Stockholm, Sweden Karolinska Universitetssjukhuset - Centrum för allogen stamcellstransplantation Stockholm, Sweden.
    Axdorph Nygell, Ulla
    Karolinska Universitetssjukhuset - Klinisk immunologi och transfusionsmedicin Stockholm, Sweden Karolinska Universitetssjukhuset - Klinisk immunologi och transfusionsmedicin Stockholm, Sweden.
    Replik gällande granulocyttransfusion: Rekommendationerna är väl underbyggda2018In: Läkartidningen, ISSN 0023-7205, E-ISSN 1652-7518, Vol. 115Article in journal (Refereed)
  • 21.
    Berlin, Gösta
    et al.
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Neuro and Inflammation Science. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine.
    Hammar, Mats
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Children's and Women's health. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center of Paediatrics and Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics in Linköping.
    Tapper, Linus
    Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine. Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Neuro and Inflammation Science. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Tynngård, Nahreen
    Linköping University, Department of Medical and Health Sciences. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Operations management Region Östergötland, Research and Development Unit.
    Effects of age, gender and menstrual cycle on platelet function assessed by impedance aggregometry2019In: Platelets, ISSN 0953-7104, E-ISSN 1369-1635, Vol. 30, no 4, p. 473-479Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Platelets are needed to prevent or arrest bleeding and aggregate at the site of injury upon vascular damage. Platelets express receptors for estrogens which might affect the function of the platelets and their hemostatic ability. The aim was to identify possible differences in platelet function related to age, gender, and phases of the menstrual cycle by use of impedance aggregometry with Multiplate. In the first part of the study, platelet function was assessed in 60 healthy individuals (30 men and 30 women) in each of three age groups (20-25, 40-45, and 60-65 years). In the second part of the study, the platelet function was analyzed on four occasions during the menstrual cycle in women without oral contraceptives (OCs) (n = 17) and compared to 19 women on OCs and 18 men of similar age (20-40 years). For the women on OCs, aggregation was analyzed once during the tablet-free week and once late during the period with OCs. The men were sampled once. Women of younger age (amp;lt;45 years) had significantly higher agonist-induced aggregation response than both men and post-menopausal women (60-65 years). The agonist-induced aggregation response did not differ between phases of the menstrual cycle or OC use. The results suggest that estradiol and/or progesterone affect spontaneous aggregation since it was found to be lowest in the mid-luteal phase. Spontaneous aggregation was significantly lower in women on OCs than in both men and women without OCs. Our findings indicate that fertile age is associated with higher aggregation response capacity of the platelets, possibly to prevent excessive bleeding during menstruation, but this response capacity is not altered during the menstrual cycle or by use of OCs.

    Download full text (pdf)
    fulltext
  • 22.
    Bhattacharya, Pradyot
    et al.
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Molecular Medicine and Virology. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Ellegård, Rada
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Cell Biology. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Clinical genetics.
    Khalid, Mohammad
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Molecular Medicine and Virology. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Svanberg, Cecilia
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Molecular Medicine and Virology. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Govender, Melissa
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Molecular Medicine and Virology. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Keita, Åsa
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Surgery, Orthopedics and Oncology. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Söderholm, Johan D.
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Surgery, Orthopedics and Oncology. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Surgery, Orthopaedics and Cancer Treatment, Department of Surgery in Linköping.
    Myrelid, Pär
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Surgery, Orthopedics and Oncology. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Surgery, Orthopaedics and Cancer Treatment, Department of Surgery in Linköping.
    Shankar, Esaki M.
    Univ Malaya, Malaysia; Cent Univ Tamil Nadu, India.
    Nyström, Sofia
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Molecular Medicine and Virology. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine.
    Larsson, Marie
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Molecular Medicine and Virology. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Complement opsonization of HIV affects primary infection of human colorectal mucosa and subsequent activation of T cells2020In: eLIFE, E-ISSN 2050-084X, Vol. 9, article id e57869Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    HIV transmission via genital and colorectal mucosa are the most common routes of dissemination. Here, we explored the effects of free and complement-opsonized HIV on colorectal tissue. Initially, there was higher antiviral responses in the free HIV compared to complementopsonized virus. The mucosal transcriptional response at 24 hr revealed the involvement of activated T cells, which was mirrored in cellular responses observed at 96 hr in isolated mucosal T cells. Further, HIV exposure led to skewing of T cell phenotypes predominantly to inflammatory CD4+ T cells, that is Th17 and Th1Th17 subsets. Of note, HIV exposure created an environment that altered the CD8+ T cell phenotype, for example expression of regulatory factors, especially when the virions were opsonized with complement factors. Our findings suggest that HIV-opsonization alters the activation and signaling pathways in the colorectal mucosa, which promotes viral establishment by creating an environment that stimulates mucosal T cell activation and inflammatory Th cells.

    Download full text (pdf)
    fulltext
  • 23.
    Blaha, M.
    et al.
    Univ Hosp Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic.
    Berlin, Gösta
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine.
    Audzijoniene, J.
    Univ Hosp, Lithuania.
    Griskevicius, A.
    Univ Hosp, Lithuania.
    Dykes, J.
    Lund Univ, Sweden.
    Bhuiyanova, Z.
    UHKT, Czech Republic.
    Lanska, M.
    Univ Hosp Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic.
    Eich, T.
    Uppsala Akad Univ Hosp, Sweden.
    Vrielink, H.
    Sanquin Blood Supply, Netherlands.
    Witt, V.
    St Anna Kinderspital MUW, Austria.
    Seval, G. C.
    Ankara Univ, Turkey.
    Ilhan, O.
    Ankara Univ, Turkey.
    Stegmayr, B.
    Umea Univ, Sweden.
    Analysis of extracorporeal photopheresis within the frame of the WAA register2021In: Transfusion and apheresis science, ISSN 1473-0502, E-ISSN 1878-1683, Vol. 60, no 5, article id 103172Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    The aim of the study was to investigate safety and if extracorporeal photopheresis (ECP) may change health criteria (HC) and quality of life (QoL). Material and method: 560 patients (33 % women) were treated with ECP for a total of 13,871 procedures during a 17-years period. Mean age was 48 years (+/- 18, range 3-81 years). Self-estimation of QoL was graded: 0 (suicidal) up to 10 (best ever) and HC: 0 (Bed ridden, ICU condition) up to 10 (athletic). Adverse events were analyzed. ANOVA and paired comparisons were performed. Results: Patients were treated due to graft versus host disease (GVHD, n = 317), skin lymphoma (n = 70), solid organ transplants (n = 47), skin diseases (n = 20) and other diseases (n = 106). Adverse events (AEs) were registered in 5.4 % of the first treatments and in 1.2 % of the subsequent procedures. Severe AEs were present in 0.04 % of all procedures. No patient died due to the procedure. Tingling and stitching were the most common AE. For those with GVHD an improvement was noticed within approximately 10 procedures of ECP in the severity stage, QoL (from a mean of 6.1 to 6.8, p 0.002) and the HC (6.1 - 6.4, p &lt; 0.014) and improved further with added procedures. Conclusion: Photopheresis is an established therapy with few side effects. The present study of soft variables indicate that GVHD shows benefits upon ECP within approximately 10 procedures in regard to the severity of mainly skin GVHD, and lower baseline levels of HC and QoL.

    Download full text (pdf)
    fulltext
  • 24.
    Blomgran, Parmis
    et al.
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Clinical Sciences. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Blomgran, Robert
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Ernerudh, Jan
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Neuro and Inflammation Science. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine.
    Aspenberg, Per
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Clinical Sciences. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Surgery, Orthopaedics and Cancer Treatment, Department of Orthopaedics in Linköping.
    A possible link between loading, inflammation and healing: Immune cell populations during tendon healing in the rat2016In: Scientific Reports, E-ISSN 2045-2322, Vol. 6, no 29824Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Loading influences tendon healing, and so does inflammation. We hypothesized that the two are connected. 48 rats underwent Achilles tendon transection. Half of the rats received Botox injections into calf muscles to reduce mechanical loading. Cells from the regenerating tissue were analyzed by flow cytometry. In the loaded group, the regenerating tissue contained 83% leukocytes (CD45(+)) day 1, and 23% day 10. The M1/M2 macrophage ratio (CCR7/CD206) peaked at day 3, while T helper (CD3(+)CD4(+)) and T-reg cells (CD25(+) Foxp3(+)) increased over time. With Botox, markers associated with down-regulation of inflammation were more common day 5 (CD163, CD206, CD25, Foxp3), and M1 or M2 macrophages and T-reg cells were virtually absent day 10, while still present with full loading. The primary variable, CCR7/CD206 ratio day 5, was higher with full loading (p = 0.001) and the T-reg cell fraction was lower (p amp;lt; 0.001). Free cage activity loading is known to increase size and strength of the tendon in this model compared to Botox. Loading now appeared to delay the switch to an M2 type of inflammation with more T-reg cells. It seems a prolonged M1 phase due to loading might make the tendon regenerate bigger.

    Download full text (pdf)
    fulltext
  • 25.
    Blomgran, Parmis
    et al.
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Surgery, Orthopedics and Oncology. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Blomgran, Robert
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Ernerudh, Jan
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Neuro and Inflammation Science. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine.
    Aspenberg, Per
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Surgery, Orthopedics and Oncology. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Surgery, Orthopaedics and Cancer Treatment, Department of Orthopaedics in Linköping.
    Cox-2 inhibition and the composition of inflammatory cell populations during early and mid-time tendon healing2017In: Muscles, ligaments and Tendons journal, ISSN 2240-4554, Vol. 7, no 2, p. 223-229Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Background: During early tendon healing, the cells within the regenerating tissue are, to a large part, inflammatory leukocytes (CD45+). In a rat Achilles tendon healing model, the inflammation resolves between 5 and 10 days. In the same model, Cox inhibitors (NSAIDs) impair healing when given during the first 5 days, but have a positive effect if given later. We tested the hypothesis that a Cox inhibitor would exert these effects by influencing inflammation, and thereby the composition of the inflammatory cell subpopulations.Methods: Achilles tendon transection was performed in 44 animals. Animals were randomized to either parecoxib or saline injections. Healing was evaluated by mechanical testing day 7 after surgery and by flow cytometry day 3 and 10.Results: Cross-sectional area, peak force and stiffness were reduced by parecoxib 31, 33, and 25% respectively (p=0.005, p=0.002, and p=0.005). By flow cytometry, there was a strong effect of time (p<0.001) on virtually all inflammatory cell subpopulations (CD45, CD11b, CD68, CCR7, CD163, CD206, CD3, CD4), but no significant effect of parecoxib at any time point.Conclusion: The results suggest that the negative effects of Cox inhibitors on tendon healing might be exerted mainly via mechanisms not directly related to inflammatory cells.

    Download full text (pdf)
    fulltext
  • 26.
    Blystad, Ida
    et al.
    Linköping University, Center for Medical Image Science and Visualization (CMIV). Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Linköping University, Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Division of Radiological Sciences.
    Håkansson, Irene
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Neuro and Inflammation Science. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Tisell, Anders
    Region Östergötland, Center for Surgery, Orthopaedics and Cancer Treatment, Department of Radiation Physics. Linköping University, Center for Medical Image Science and Visualization (CMIV). Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Linköping University, Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Division of Radiological Sciences.
    Ernerudh, Jan
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Neuro and Inflammation Science. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine.
    Smedby, Örjan
    Linköping University, Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Division of Radiological Sciences. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Radiology in Linköping. Linköping University, Center for Medical Image Science and Visualization (CMIV).
    Lundberg, Peter
    Linköping University, Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Division of Radiological Sciences. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Surgery, Orthopaedics and Cancer Treatment, Department of Radiation Physics. Linköping University, Center for Medical Image Science and Visualization (CMIV).
    Larsson, Elna-Marie
    Linköping University, Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Division of Radiological Sciences. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Uppsala University, Sweden.
    Quantitative MRI for Analysis of Active Multiple Sclerosis Lesions without Gadolinium-Based Contrast Agent2016In: American Journal of Neuroradiology, ISSN 0195-6108, E-ISSN 1936-959X, Vol. 37, no 1, p. 94-100Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Contrast-enhancing MS lesions are important markers of active inflammation in the diagnostic work-up of MS and in disease monitoring with MR imaging. Because intravenous contrast agents involve an expense and a potential risk of adverse events, it would be desirable to identify active lesions without using a contrast agent. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether pre-contrast injection tissue-relaxation rates and proton density of MS lesions, by using a new quantitative MR imaging sequence, can identify active lesions. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty-four patients with a clinical suspicion of MS were studied. MR imaging with a standard clinical MS protocol and a quantitative MR imaging sequence was performed at inclusion (baseline) and after 1 year. ROIs were placed in MS lesions, classified as nonenhancing or enhancing. Longitudinal and transverse relaxation rates, as well as proton density were obtained from the quantitative MR imaging sequence. Statistical analyses of ROI values were performed by using a mixed linear model, logistic regression, and receiver operating characteristic analysis. RESULTS: Enhancing lesions had a significantly (P &lt; .001) higher mean longitudinal relaxation rate (1.22 0.36 versus 0.89 +/- 0.24), a higher mean transverse relaxation rate (9.8 +/- 2.6 versus 7.4 +/- 1.9), and a lower mean proton density (77 +/- 11.2 versus 90 +/- 8.4) than nonenhancing lesions. An area under the receiver operating characteristic curve value of 0.832 was obtained. CONCLUSIONS: Contrast-enhancing MS lesions often have proton density and relaxation times that differ from those in nonenhancing lesions, with lower proton density and shorter relaxation times in enhancing lesions compared with nonenhancing lesions.

  • 27.
    Boij, Roland
    et al.
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Neuro and Inflammation Science. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. County Hospital Ryhov, Sweden.
    Mjosberg, Jenny
    Karolinska Institute, Sweden.
    Svensson-Arvelund, Judit
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Neuro and Inflammation Science. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Hjorth, Maria
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Neuro and Inflammation Science. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Berg, Göran
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Clinical Sciences. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center of Paediatrics and Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics in Linköping.
    Matthiesen, Leif
    Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center of Paediatrics and Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics in Linköping. Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Clinical Sciences. Helsingborg Hospital, Sweden.
    Jenmalm, Maria
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Neuro and Inflammation Science. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Ernerudh, Jan
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Neuro and Inflammation Science. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine.
    Regulatory T-cell Subpopulations in Severe or Early-onset Preeclampsia2015In: American Journal of Reproductive Immunology, ISSN 1046-7408, E-ISSN 1600-0897, Vol. 74, no 4, p. 368-378Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Problem A deficiency in regulatory T (Treg) cells causing reduced immune regulatory capacity has been proposed in preeclampsia. Objective Utilizing recent advances in flow cytometry phenotyping, we aimed to assess whether a deficiency of Treg subpopulations occurs in preeclampsia. Method of study Six-color flow cytometry was used for Treg phenotyping in 18 preeclamptic women (one early-onset, one severe and 16 both), 20 women with normal pregnancy, and 20 non-pregnant controls. Results No differences were found in major Treg populations including CD127(low)CD25(+)/CD127(ow)FOXP3(+), resting (FOXP3(dim)CD45RA(+)), and activated (FOXP3(bright)CD45RA(-)) Treg cells, whereas preeclamptic women showed increased CTLA-4(+) and CCR4(+) proportions within resting/activated Treg populations. Corticosteroid treatment prior to blood sampling (n = 10) affected the distribution of Treg populations. Conclusions Although we found no major alterations in circulating Treg frequencies, differences in CTLA-4(+) and CCR4(+) frequencies suggest a migratory defect of Treg cells in preeclampsia. Corticosteroid treatment should be taken into account when evaluating Treg cells.

    Download full text (pdf)
    fulltext
  • 28.
    Bruhn, Helena
    et al.
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Neurobiology. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Jonkoping Cty, Sweden.
    Blystad, Ida
    Linköping University, Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Division of Diagnostics and Specialist Medicine. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Radiology in Linköping. Linköping University, Center for Medical Image Science and Visualization (CMIV).
    Milos, Peter
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Neurobiology. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Anaesthetics, Operations and Specialty Surgery Center, Department of Neurosurgery.
    Malmström, Annika
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Cell Biology. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Local Health Care Services in Central Östergötland, Närvårdskliniken.
    Dahle, Charlotte
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine.
    Vrethem, Magnus
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Neurobiology. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Anaesthetics, Operations and Specialty Surgery Center, Neurologiska kliniken i Linköping.
    Henriksson, Roger
    Umea Univ Hosp, Sweden.
    Lind, Jonas
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Neurobiology. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Jonkoping Cty, Sweden.
    Initial cognitive impairment predicts shorter survival of patients with glioblastoma2022In: Acta Neurologica Scandinavica, ISSN 0001-6314, E-ISSN 1600-0404, Vol. 145, no 1, p. 94-101Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Objectives Seizures as presenting symptom of glioblastoma (GBM) are known to predict prolonged survival, whereas the clinical impact of other initial symptoms is less known. Our main objective was to evaluate the influence of different presenting symptoms on survival in a clinical setting. We also assessed lead times, tumour size and localization. Methods Medical records of 189 GBM patients were reviewed regarding the first medical appointment, presenting symptom/s, date of diagnostic radiology and survival. Tumour size, localization and treatment data were retrieved. Overall survival was calculated using Kaplan-Meier and Mann-Whitney U test. Cox regression was used for risk estimation. Results Cognitive impairment as the initial symptom was often misinterpreted in primary health care leading to a delayed diagnosis. Initial global symptoms (66% of all patients) were associated with reduced survival compared to no global symptoms (median 8.4 months vs. 12.6 months). Those with the most common cognitive dysfunctions: change of behaviour, memory impairment and/or disorientation had a reduced median survival to 6.4 months. In contrast, seizures (32%) were associated with longer survival (median 11.2 months vs. 8.3 months). Global symptoms were associated with larger tumours than seizures, but tumour size had no linear association with survival. The setting of the first medical appointment was evenly distributed between primary health care and emergency units. Conclusion Patients with GBM presenting with cognitive symptoms are challenging to identify, have larger tumours and reduced survival. In contrast, epileptic seizures as the first symptom are associated with longer survival and smaller tumours.

    Download full text (pdf)
    fulltext
  • 29.
    Bruno, V.
    et al.
    IRCCS Regina Elena Natl Canc Inst, Italy; St Camillus Int Univ Hlth & Med Sci, Italy.
    Amati, F.
    Univ Roma Tor Vergata, Italy.
    Ticconi, C.
    Univ Roma Tor Vergata, Italy.
    Riccio, S.
    Univ Roma Tor Vergata, Italy.
    Vancheri, C.
    Univ Roma Tor Vergata, Italy.
    Rizzacasa, B.
    Univ Roma Tor Vergata, Italy.
    Splendiani, E.
    Sapienza Univ Rome, Italy.
    Ferretti, E.
    Sapienza Univ Rome, Italy.
    Ernerudh, Jan
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine.
    Piccione, E.
    Univ Roma Tor Vergata, Italy; Catholic Univ Our Lady Good Counsel, Albania.
    Pietropolli, A.
    Univ Roma Tor Vergata, Italy.
    Low molecular weight heparin -induced miRNA changes in peripheral blood mononuclear cells in pregnancies with unexplained recurrent pregnancy loss2022In: Journal of Reproductive Immunology, ISSN 0165-0378, E-ISSN 1872-7603, Vol. 151, article id 103502Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Unexplained recurrent pregnancy loss (uRPL) is a clinical condition for which there is a lack of evidenced-based therapies. However, in clinical practice, low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) has been widely used as an empirical therapy since immune effects have been hypothesized in modulating immune tolerance at the fetal maternal interface. Epigenetic mechanisms are involved in establishing of immune tolerance, at fetal-maternal interface. To investigate potential induced immune-epigenetic changes at maternal periphery level, which could reflect the maternal-fetal interface condition, seems to open up new therapeutical strategies, since microRNAs circulating in maternal plasma and in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) may be specific and sensitive immunological markers/predictors of adverse pregnancy outcomes such as RPL.Our aim in this pilot study is to evaluate potential LMWH effects on genes regulating immunological response key mechanisms related to maternal-fetal tolerance processes, by studying circulating miRNAs in maternal peripheral blood. We tested a panel of selected miRNAs on three groups: 18 healthy pregnant women, 20 pregnant women affected by uRPL, 18 pregnant women affected by uRPL, treated with LMWH. The majority of differentially expressed miRNAs (miR 374a-5p, 19a-3p, 30e-5p, 128-3p, 155-5p and 200c-3p) were found to be modulated by LMWH, which seems to have a positive function in RPL patients, by bringing patients values back to those comparable to the control ones. Selected microRNA panels would appear to be an effective clinical tool for uRPL diagnosis and management. LMWH-modified miRNA expression levels could be targets for immunotherapy, as LMWH would appear to restore physiological miRNA levels, which are dysregulated in uRPL.

  • 30.
    Bruno, Valentina
    et al.
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Tor Vergata Univ, Italy.
    Lindau, Robert
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Jenmalm, Maria
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Ticconi, Carlo
    Tor Vergata Univ, Italy.
    Piccione, Emilio
    Tor Vergata Univ, Italy.
    Pietropolli, Adalgisa
    Tor Vergata Univ, Italy.
    Ernerudh, Jan
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine.
    First-trimester trophoblasts obtained by chorionic villus sampling maintain tolerogenic and proteomic features in successful pregnancies despite a history of unexplained recurrent pregnancy loss2020In: American Journal of Reproductive Immunology, ISSN 1046-7408, E-ISSN 1600-0897, Vol. 84, no 6, article id e13314Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Problem While there are several known causes for recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL), about 50% are unexplained (uRPL), and in these cases, an aberrant immune regulation seems to be involved. Although fetally derived trophoblast cells have a key role in immune regulation, it is difficult to study their immune function during pregnancy, and it is not known whether trophoblast function may be an inherent aberration in uRPL or whether it is associated with the outcome of the current pregnancy. Method of study Chorionic villus sampling (CVS) was performed for clinical indications at 12 weeks of gestation. Superfluous materials, divided in small explants, were cultured for 20-24 hours, and supernatants (conditioned medium) were collected from 36 women with singleton normal pregnancies, of whom 9 women had a history of RPL. The secreted immune protein profile was measured by proximity extension assay, and the conditioned medium was further used in functional ex vivo models to assess ability to polarize blood monocytes and CD4(+)T cells into immune regulatory phenotypes, as detected by flow cytometry. Results Conditioned medium from chorionic villi, human fetally derived placental tissue, was able to induce a decidual-type of M2-like macrophages, as well as an expansion of Treg cells ex vivo, both in women with uRPL and in control women. The preserved immunological properties were confirmed by a maintained immune protein profile in RPL compared with controls. Conclusion Trophoblasts in an ex vivo model maintain tolerogenic and proteomic profile features in successful pregnancies, despite a previous history of RPL.

    Download full text (pdf)
    fulltext
  • 31.
    Bruno, Valentina
    et al.
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Neuro and Inflammation Science. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Tor Vergata Univ Hosp, Italy.
    Svensson-Arvelund, Judit
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Neuro and Inflammation Science. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Rubér, Marie
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Children's and Women's health. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Berg, Göran
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Children's and Women's health. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center of Paediatrics and Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics in Linköping.
    Piccione, Emilio
    Tor Vergata Univ Hosp, Italy.
    Jenmalm, Maria
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Neuro and Inflammation Science. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Ernerudh, Jan
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Neuro and Inflammation Science. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine.
    Effects of low molecular weight heparin on the polarization and cytokine profile of macrophages and T helper cells in vitro2018In: Scientific Reports, E-ISSN 2045-2322, Vol. 8, article id 4166Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) is widely used in recurrent miscarriage treatment. The anticoagulant effects are established, while immunological effects are not fully known. Our aim was to assess LMWH effects on activation and polarization of central regulatory immune cells from healthy women, and on placenta tissues from women undergoing elective abortions. Isolated blood monocytes and T helper (Th) cells under different activation and polarizing conditions were cultured with or without LMWH. Flow cytometry showed that LMWH exposure induced increased expression of HLA-DR and CD206 in macrophages. This phenotype was associated with increased secretion of Th17-associated CCL20, and decreased secretion of CCL2 (M2-associated) and CCL22 (Th2), as measured by multiplex bead array. In accordance, LMWH exposure to Th cells reduced the proportion of CD25highFoxp3+ regulatory T-cells, intensified IFN-gamma secretion and showed a tendency to increase the lymphoblast proportions. Collectively, a mainly pro-inflammatory effect was noted on two essential tolerance-promoting cells. Although the biological significancies of these in vitro findings are uncertain and need to be confirmed in vivo, they suggest the possibility that immunological effects of LMWH may be beneficial mainly at an earlier gestational age to provide an appropriate implantation process in women with recurrent miscarriage.

    Download full text (pdf)
    fulltext
  • 32.
    Cheng, Shibin
    et al.
    Brown Univ, RI 02905 USA.
    Banerjee, Sayani
    Brown Univ, RI 02905 USA.
    Daiello, Lori A.
    Brown Univ, RI 02903 USA; Rhode Isl Hosp, RI 02903 USA.
    Nakashima, Akitoshi
    Univ Toyama, Japan.
    Jash, Sukanta
    Brown Univ, RI 02905 USA.
    Huang, Zheping
    Brown Univ, RI 02905 USA.
    Drake, Jonathan D.
    Brown Univ, RI 02903 USA; Rhode Isl Hosp, RI 02903 USA.
    Ernerudh, Jan
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine.
    Berg, Göran
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Children's and Women's Health. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center of Paediatrics and Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics in Linköping.
    Padbury, James
    Brown Univ, RI 02905 USA.
    Saito, Shigeru
    Univ Toyama, Japan.
    Ott, Brian R.
    Brown Univ, RI 02903 USA; Rhode Isl Hosp, RI 02903 USA.
    Sharma, Surendra
    Brown Univ, RI 02905 USA.
    Novel blood test for early biomarkers of preeclampsia and Alzheimers disease2021In: Scientific Reports, E-ISSN 2045-2322, Vol. 11, no 1, article id 15934Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    A non-invasive and sensitive blood test has long been a goal for early stage disease diagnosis and treatment for Alzheimers disease (AD) and other proteinopathy diseases. We previously reported that preeclampsia (PE), a severe pregnancy complication, is another proteinopathy disorder with impaired autophagy. We hypothesized that induced autophagy deficiency would promote accumulation of pathologic protein aggregates. Here, we describe a novel, sensitive assay that detects serum protein aggregates from patients with PE (n=33 early onset and 33 late onset) and gestational age-matched controls (n=77) as well as AD in both dementia and prodromal mild cognitive impairment (MCI, n=24) stages with age-matched controls (n=19). The assay employs exposure of genetically engineered, autophagy-deficient human trophoblasts (ADTs) to serum from patients. The aggregated protein complexes and their individual components, including transthyretin, amyloid beta -42, alpha -synuclein, and phosphorylated tau231, can be detected and quantified by co-staining with ProteoStat, a rotor dye with affinity to aggregated proteins, and respective antibodies. Detection of protein aggregates in ADTs was not dependent on transcriptional upregulation of these biomarkers. The ROC curve analysis validated the robustness of the assay for its specificity and sensitivity (PE; AUC: 1, CI: 0.949-1.00; AD; AUC: 0.986, CI: 0.832-1.00). In conclusion, we have developed a novel, noninvasive diagnostic and predictive assay for AD, MCI and PE.

    Download full text (pdf)
    fulltext
  • 33.
    Crisci, Elisa
    et al.
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Ellegård, Rada
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Nyström, Sofia
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine.
    Rondahl, Elin
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Östergötlands Läns Landsting, Heart and Medicine Center, Department of Infectious Diseases.
    Serrander, Lena
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Heart and Medicine Center, Department of Infectious Diseases.
    Bergström, Tomas
    University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.
    Sjöwall, Christopher
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Neuro and Inflammation Science. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Heart and Medicine Center, Department of Rheumatology.
    Eriksson, Kristina
    University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.
    Larsson, Marie
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Complement opsonization promotes HSV-2 infection of human dendritic cells2016In: Journal of Virology, ISSN 0022-538X, E-ISSN 1098-5514, Vol. 90, no 10, p. 4939-4950Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Herpes virus type 2 (HSV2) is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections globally with a very high prevalence in many countries. During HSV2 infection viral particles become coated with complement proteins and antibodies, both existent in the genital fluids, which could influence the activation of the immune responses. In genital mucosa, the primary target cells for HSV2 infection are epithelial cells, but resident immune cells such as dendritic cells (DCs) are also infected. The DCs are the activators of the ensuing immune responses directed against HSV2, and the aim of this study was to examine the effects opsonization of HSV2, either with complement alone or with complement and antibodies, had on the infection of immature DCs and their ability to mount inflammatory and antiviral responses. Complement opsonization of HSV2 enhanced both the direct infection of immature DCs and their production of new infectious viral particles. The enhanced infection required activation of the complement cascade and functional complement receptor 3. Furthermore, HSV2 infection of DCs required endocytosis of viral particles and their delivery into an acid endosomal compartment. The presence of complement in combination with HSV1 or HSV2 specific antibodies more or less abolished the HSV2 infection of DCs.Our results clearly demonstrate the importance of studying HSV2 infection under conditions that ensue in vivo, i.e. when the virions are covered in complement fragments and complement fragments and antibodies, as this will shape the infection and the subsequent immune response and needs to be further elucidated.

    IMPORTANCE: During HSV2 infection viral particles should become coated with complement proteins and antibodies, both existent in the genital fluids, which could influence the activation of the immune responses. The dendritic cells are the activators of the immune responses directed against HSV2, and the aim of this study was to examine the effects of complement alone or complement and antibodies, on the HSV2 infection of dendritic cells and their ability to mount inflammatory and antiviral responses.Our results demonstrate that the presence of antibodies and complement in the genital environment can influence HSV2 infection under in vitro conditions that reflect the in vivo situation. We believe that our findings are highly relevant for the understanding of HSV2 pathogenesis.

    Download full text (pdf)
    fulltext
  • 34.
    Crisci, Elisa
    et al.
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. North Carolina State Univ, NC USA.
    Svanberg, Cecilia
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Hematopoiesis and Developmental Biology. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Ellegård, Rada
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Hematopoiesis and Developmental Biology. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Clinical genetics.
    Khalid, Mohammad
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. King Khalid Univ, Saudi Arabia.
    Hellblom, Julia
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Hematopoiesis and Developmental Biology. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Okuyama, Kazuki
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Bhattacharya, Pradyot
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Hematopoiesis and Developmental Biology. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Nyström, Sofia
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Hematopoiesis and Developmental Biology. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine.
    Shankar, Esaki M.
    Cent Univ Tamil Nadu, India.
    Eriksson, Kristina
    Univ Gothenburg, Sweden.
    Larsson, Marie
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Hematopoiesis and Developmental Biology. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    HSV-2 Cellular Programming Enables Productive HIV Infection in Dendritic Cells2019In: Frontiers in Immunology, E-ISSN 1664-3224, Vol. 10, article id 2889Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Genital herpes is a common sexually transmitted infection caused by herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). Genital herpes significantly enhances the acquisition and transmission of HIV-1 by creating a microenvironment that supports HIV infection in the host. Dendritic cells (DCs) represent one of the first innate cell types that encounter HIV-1 and HSV-2 in the genital mucosa. HSV-2 infection has been shown to modulate DCs, rendering them more receptive to HIV infection. Here, we investigated the potential mechanisms underlying HSV-2-mediated augmentation of HIV-1 infection. We demonstrated that the presence of HSV-2 enhanced productive HIV-1 infection of DCs and boosted inflammatory and antiviral responses. The HSV-2 augmented HIV-1 infection required intact HSV-2 DNA, but not active HSV-2 DNA replication. Furthermore, the augmented HIV infection of DCs involved the cGAS-STING pathway. Interestingly, we could not see any involvement of TLR2 or TLR3 nor suppression of infection by IFN-beta production. The conditioning by HSV-2 in dual exposed DCs decreased protein expression of IFI16, cGAS, STING, and TBK1, which is associated with signaling through the STING pathway. Dual exposure to HSV-2 and HIV-1 gave decreased levels of several HIV-1 restriction factors, especially SAMHD1, TREX1, and APOBEC3G. Activation of the STING pathway in DCs by exposure to both HSV-2 and HIV-1 most likely led to the proteolytic degradation of the HIV-1 restriction factors SAMHD1, TREX1, and APOBEC3G, which should release their normal restriction of HIV infection in DCs. This released their normal restriction of HIV infection in DCs. We showed that HSV-2 reprogramming of cellular signaling pathways and protein expression levels in the DCs provided a setting where HIV-1 can establish a higher productive infection in the DCs. In conclusion, HSV-2 reprogramming opens up DCs for HIV-1 infection and creates a microenvironment favoring HIV-1 transmission.

    Download full text (pdf)
    fulltext
  • 35.
    Dadfa, Elham
    et al.
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Children's and Women's Health. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center of Paediatrics and Gynaecology and Obstetrics, H.K.H. Kronprinsessan Victorias barn- och ungdomssjukhus.
    Furuhjelm, Catrin
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Children's and Women's Health. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center of Paediatrics and Gynaecology and Obstetrics, H.K.H. Kronprinsessan Victorias barn- och ungdomssjukhus.
    Nilsson, Jakob
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine. Univ Hosp Zurich, Dept Immunol, Zurich, Switzerland.
    Dahle, Charlotte
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine.
    Garred, Peter
    Univ Copenhagen, Denmark.
    Fatal pneumococcus meningitis in a child with complement factor ficolin-3 deficiency2020In: Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice, ISSN 2213-2198, E-ISSN 2213-2201, Vol. 8, no 2, p. 778-779Article in journal (Other academic)
    Abstract [en]

    n/a

  • 36.
    Daferera, Niki
    et al.
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Surgery, Orthopaedics and Cancer Treatment, Mag- tarmmedicinska kliniken.
    Escudero-Hernandez, Celia
    Univ Kiel, Germany; Univ Hosp Schleswig Holstein, Germany.
    Nyström, Sofia
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Molecular Medicine and Virology. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine.
    Jenmalm, Maria
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Hjortswang, Henrik
    Linköping University, Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Division of Diagnostics and Specialist Medicine. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Surgery, Orthopaedics and Cancer Treatment, Mag- tarmmedicinska kliniken.
    Ignatova, Simone
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Neurobiology. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Clinical pathology.
    Ström, Magnus
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Surgery, Orthopedics and Oncology. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Surgery, Orthopaedics and Cancer Treatment, Mag- tarmmedicinska kliniken.
    Münch, Andreas
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Molecular Medicine and Virology. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Surgery, Orthopaedics and Cancer Treatment, Mag- tarmmedicinska kliniken.
    Collagenous Colitis Mucosa Is Characterized by an Expansion of Nonsuppressive FoxP3(+) T Helper Cells2021In: Inflammatory Bowel Diseases, ISSN 1078-0998, E-ISSN 1536-4844, Vol. 27, no 9, p. 1482-1490Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Background and Aim: Increased frequencies of T regulatory (Treg) cells, key players in immune regulation, have been reported in inflammatory bowel diseases, including collagenous colitis (CC). However, traditional Treg identification techniques might have misinterpreted the frequencies of Treg cells in CC. Thus, we investigated the presence of genuine Treg cells in CC. Methods: Treg cells were analyzed in mucosal and peripheral blood samples of CC patients before and during treatment with the corticosteroid drug budesonide and in healthy controls. Samples were analyzed by flow cytometry by classifying CD3(+) CD4(+) cells as activated FoxP3(high)CD45RA. Treg cells, resting FoxP3(dim)CD45RA(+) Treg cells, and nonsuppressive FoxP3(dim)CD45RA-T helper cells. Traditional gating strategies that classified Treg cells as CD25(high)CD127(lo)(w), FoxP3(+)CD127(low), and CD4(+)CD25(+)FoxP3(+) were also used to facilitate comparison with previous studies. Results: Activated and resting Treg cell frequencies did not change in active CC mucosa or peripheral blood and were not affected by budesonide treatment. Instead, nonsuppressive FoxP3(dim)CD45RA-T helper cells were increased in active CC mucosa, and budesonide helped restore them to normal levels. In contrast, traditional Treg cell gating strategies resulted in increased Treg cell frequencies in active CC mucosa. No alterations were found in peripheral blood samples, independently of patient treatment or gating techniques. Conclusion: Previously reported increase of Treg cells is a result of incomplete Treg phenotyping, which included nonsuppressive FoxP3(dim)CD45RA - T helper cells. Because budesonide did not affect Treg percentage, its therapeutic effect in CC might involve alternative mechanisms.

  • 37.
    Daferera, Niki
    et al.
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Surgery, Orthopaedics and Cancer Treatment, Mag- tarmmedicinska kliniken.
    Nyström, Sofia
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine.
    Hjortswang, Henrik
    Linköping University, Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Division of Diagnostics and Specialist Medicine. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Surgery, Orthopaedics and Cancer Treatment, Mag- tarmmedicinska kliniken.
    Ignatova, Simone
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Neurobiology. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Clinical pathology.
    Jenmalm, Maria
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Ström, Magnus
    Linköping University, Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Division of Diagnostics and Specialist Medicine. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Surgery, Orthopaedics and Cancer Treatment, Mag- tarmmedicinska kliniken.
    Münch, Andreas
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Molecular Medicine and Virology. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Surgery, Orthopaedics and Cancer Treatment, Mag- tarmmedicinska kliniken.
    Mucosa associated invariant T and natural killer cells in active and budesonide treated collagenous colitis patients2022In: Frontiers in Immunology, E-ISSN 1664-3224, Vol. 13, article id 981740Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    IntroductionCollagenous colitis (CC) is an inflammatory bowel disease, which usually responds to budesonide treatment. Our aim was to study the immunological background of the disease. MethodsAnalyses of peripheral and mucosal MAIT (mucosa associated invariant T cells) and NK (natural killer) cells were performed with flow cytometry. Numbers of mucosal cells were calculated using immunohistochemistry. We studied the same patients with active untreated CC (au-CC) and again while in remission on budesonide treatment. Budesonide refractory patients and healthy controls were also included. The memory marker CD45R0 and activation marker CD154 and CD69 were used to further study the cells. Finally B cells, CD4(+) and CD8(+) T cells were also analysed. ResultsThe percentages of circulating CD56(dim)CD16(+) NK cells as well as MAIT cells (CD3(+)TCRVa7.2(+)CD161(+)) were decreased in au-CC compared to healthy controls. This difference was not seen in the mucosa; where we instead found increased numbers of mucosal CD4(+) T cells and CD8(+) T cells in au-CC. Mucosal immune cell numbers were not affected by budesonide treatment. In refractory CC we found increased mucosal numbers of MAIT cells, CD4(+) and CD8(+) T cells compared to au-CC. DiscussionPatients with active collagenous colitis have lower percentages of circulating MAIT and NK cells. However, there was no change of these cells in the colonic mucosa. Most mucosal cell populations were increased in budesonide refractory as compared to au-CC patients, particularly the number of MAIT cells. This may indicate that T cell targeting therapy could be an alternative in budesonide refractory CC.

    Download full text (pdf)
    fulltext
  • 38.
    Danielsson, Olof
    et al.
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Neurobiology. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Anaesthetics, Operations and Specialty Surgery Center, Neurologiska kliniken i Linköping.
    Häggqvist, Bo
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Neurobiology. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Anaesthetics, Operations and Specialty Surgery Center, Neurologiska kliniken i Linköping.
    Gröntoft, Liv
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Neurobiology. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Öllinger, Karin
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Cell Biology. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Ernerudh, Jan
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine.
    Apoptosis in idiopathic inflammatory myopathies with partial invasion; a role for CD8(+)cytotoxic T cells?2020In: PLOS ONE, E-ISSN 1932-6203, Vol. 15, no 9, article id e0239176Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Polymyositis and inclusion body myositis are idiopathic inflammatory myopathies, with a pathology characterized by partial invasion of non-necrotic muscle fibres by CD8(+)cytotoxic T-cells, leading to fibre degeneration. Although the main effector pathway of CD8(+)T-cells is to induce apoptosis of target cells, it has remained unclear if apoptosis occurs in these diseases, and if so, if it is mediated by CD8(+)T-cells. In consecutive biopsy sections from 10 patients with partial invasion, muscle fibres and inflammatory cells were assessed by immunohistochemistry and apoptotic nuclei by the TUNEL assay. Analysis of muscle fibre morphology, staining pattern and quantification were performed on digital images, and they were compared with biopsies from 10 dermatomyositis patients and 10 controls without muscle disease. Apoptotic myonuclei were found in muscle with partial invasion, but not in the invaded fibres. Fibres with TUNEL positive nuclei were surrounded by CD8(+)T-cells, granzyme B(+)cells and macrophages, but lacked FAS receptor expression. In contrast, apoptotic myonuclei were rare in dermatomyositis and absent in controls. The findings confirm that apoptosis occurs in idiopathic inflammatory myopathies and support that it is mediated by CD8(+)cytotoxic T- cells, acting in parallel to the process of partial invasion.

    Download full text (pdf)
    fulltext
  • 39.
    Danielsson, Olof
    et al.
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Neuro and Inflammation Science. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Lindvall, Björn
    University Hospital Örebro, Sweden.
    Hallert, Claes
    Region Östergötland, Local Health Care Services in East Östergötland, Department of Internal Medicine in Norrköping. Linköping University, Department of Medical and Health Sciences. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Vrethem, Magnus
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Neuro and Inflammation Science. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Local Health Care Services in Central Östergötland, Department of Neurology.
    Dahle, Charlotte
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Neuro and Inflammation Science. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine.
    Increased prevalence of celiac disease in idiopathic inflammatory myopathies2017In: Brain and Behavior, E-ISSN 2162-3279, Vol. 7, no 10, article id e00803Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    ObjectivesIdiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIM) are often associated with other immune-mediated diseases or malignancy. Some studies have reported a high frequency of celiac disease in IIM. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of celiac disease, systemic inflammatory diseases, and malignancy in a cohort of IIM patients, and estimate the incidence of IIM in the county of ostergotland, Sweden. Material and MethodsWe reviewed medical records and analyzed sera from 106 patients, fulfilling pathological criteria of inflammatory myopathy, for the presence of IgA antibodies against endomysium and gliadin. Antibody-positive patients were offered further investigation with small bowel biopsy or investigation for the presence of antibodies against antitissue transglutaminase (t-TG). The patients were classified according to Bohan and Peter or Griggs criteria. The presence of celiac disease, systemic inflammatory, and malignant diseases was documented. ResultsFour of 88 patients classified as IIM (4.5%) had biopsy-confirmed celiac disease, which is higher than the prevalence in the general population, detected with a similar screening procedure (0.53%). Thirty-three patients (38%) had a systemic inflammatory disease and five (5.7%) a malignancy. The incidence of confirmed IIM in the county of ostergotland was 7.3 per million/year. ConclusionsThe results highlight the high frequency of associated inflammatory and malignant diseases and confirm an increased prevalence of celiac disease in IIM.

    Download full text (pdf)
    fulltext
  • 40.
    Edvardsson, Maria
    et al.
    Linköping University, Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Division of Drug Research. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Local Health Care Services in Finspång, Primary Health Care in Finspång.
    Sund-Levander, Märtha
    Linköping University, Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Division of Nursing Science. Linköping University, Faculty of Health Sciences.
    Ernerudh, Jan
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Neuro and Inflammation Science. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine. Linköping University, Faculty of Health Sciences.
    Theodorsson, Elvar
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Chemistry. Linköping University, Faculty of Health Sciences.
    Grodzinsky, Eva
    Linköping University, Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Division of Drug Research. Linköping University, Faculty of Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Local Health Care Services in West Östergötland, Research & Development Unit in Local Health Care. Rättsmedicinalverket, Linköping, Sweden.
    Clinical use of conventional reference intervals in the frail elderly2015In: Journal of Evaluation In Clinical Practice, ISSN 1356-1294, E-ISSN 1365-2753, Vol. 21, no 2, p. 229-235Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Rationale, aims and objectives

    Reference intervals provided by the laboratory are commonly established by measuring samples from apparently healthy subjects in the ages 18–65 years, excluding elderly individuals with chronic diseases and medication. The aim of our study was to establish whether current reference intervals for immune parameters and chemical biomarkers are valid for older individuals including those with chronic diseases, so-called frail elderly.

    Methods

    Data from our cohort of 138 non-infected nursing home residents (NHR), mean age 86.8 years, range 80–98, were compared with raw data, as basis for the development of reference intervals, obtained from reference populations, like blood donors (IgA, IgG, IgM, C3 and C4) and from the Nordic Reference Interval Project (NORIP) (alanine aminotransferase, albumin, aspartate aminotransferase, creatinine, gamma-glutamyl transferase, lactate dehydrogenase, phosphate, sodium and urea). Immune parameters were measured by nephelometry and in NORIP the measurements were performed by means of different routine methods, in more than 100 laboratories.

    Results

    Only nine individuals (7%) of NHR were found to be free from chronic disease. C3, C4 (P < 0.001) and IgG levels (P < 0.05) were higher, while IgM levels (P < 0.001) were lower in NHR compared with reference blood donors. Levels of alanine aminotransferase, phosphate (P < 0.001), albumin (P < 0.05) and sodium (P < 0.01) were lower while creatinine and urea levels were higher (P < 0.001) in NHR compared with NORIP subjects.

    Conclusion

    Comparing laboratory results from elderly people with conventional reference intervals can be misleading or even dangerous, as normal conditions may appear pathological, or vice versa and thus lead to unnecessary or even harmful treatment.

    Download full text (pdf)
    fulltext
  • 41.
    Edvardsson, Maria
    et al.
    Linköping University, Department of Medical and Health Sciences. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Local Health Care Services in Finspång, Health care Center Finspång.
    Sund-Levander, Märtha
    Linköping University, Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Division of Nursing Science. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Anaesthetics, Operations and Specialty Surgery Center, Department of Neurosurgery.
    Milberg, Anna
    Linköping University, Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Division of Community Medicine. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Local Health Care Services in East Östergötland, Department of Advanced Home Care in Norrköping.
    Ernerudh, Jan
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Neuro and Inflammation Science. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine.
    Grodzinsky, Ewa
    Linköping University, Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Division of Drug Research. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Division of Forensic Genetics and Forensic Toxicology, National Board of Forensic Medicine, Sweden.
    Elevated levels of CRP and IL-8 are related to reduce survival time: 1-year follow-up measurements of different analytes in frail elderly nursing home residents2019In: Scandinavian Journal of Clinical and Laboratory Investigation, ISSN 0036-5513, E-ISSN 1502-7686, Vol. 79, no 5, p. 288-292Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    There are only few studies with specific focus on predictors of survival in nursing home residents (NHRs). The aim was to study whether 1-year changes in complete blood count (including hemoglobin, red blood cells, erythrocyte volume fraction, mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, white blood cells count and platelet count), C-reactive protein and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1 beta), IL-1Ra, IL-6, IL-8 and IL-10, are associated with 8-year survival in elderly NHRs, aged amp;gt;= 80 years. Complete blood count, C-reactive protein and interleukins were measured at baseline, after 6 and 12 months from 167 NHRs aged 80-101 years, mean age 88 +/- 4.5 years, 75% of whom were women. Dates of death were collected from the National Death Register 8 years after baseline. Levels of hemoglobin, red blood cells and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration were lower after 1-year, but higher for mean corpuscular volume and IL-1 beta, compared to baseline or 6 month follow-up. In the Cox regression model with a time-dependent covariate, raised levels of C-reactive protein and IL-8 were associated with reduced survival time. Elevated levels of C-reactive protein and IL-8 during 1-year follow-up were related to reduce lengths of survival in elderly NHRs.

    Download full text (pdf)
    fulltext
  • 42.
    Edvardsson, Maria
    et al.
    Region Östergötland, Primary Care Center, Primary Health Care Center Finspång. Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Clinical Chemistry and Pharmacology. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Sund-Levander, Märtha
    Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Linköping University, Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Division of Nursing Sciences and Reproductive Health. Region Östergötland, Anaesthetics, Operations and Specialty Surgery Center, Department of Neurosurgery.
    Milberg, Anna
    Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Local Health Care Services in East Östergötland, Department of Advanced Home Care in Norrköping. Linköping University, Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Division of Prevention, Rehabilitation and Community Medicine.
    Ernerudh, Jan
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine.
    Wressle, Ewa
    Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Local Health Care Services in Central Östergötland, Department of Acute Internal Medicine and Geriatrics. Linköping University, Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences.
    Marcusson, Jan
    Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Local Health Care Services in Central Östergötland, Department of Acute Internal Medicine and Geriatrics. Linköping University, Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Division of Prevention, Rehabilitation and Community Medicine.
    Grodzinsky, Ewa
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Clinical Chemistry and Pharmacology. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Classification of ≥80-year-old individuals into healthy, moderately healthy, and frail based on different frailty scores affects the interpretation of laboratory results2022In: Asian Journal of Medical Sciences, ISSN 2467-9100, E-ISSN 2091-0576, Vol. 13, no 9, p. 63-71Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Background: Interpretation laboratory analyses are crucial when assessing the patient’s condition. Reference intervals from apparently healthy and disease-free individuals may cause problems when outcomes from elderly patients with chronic diseases and on medications are being interpreted. Elderly individuals are a heterogeneous group ranging from individuals managing their daily life independently to individuals with diseases and impairment, in need of nursing care around the clock, that is, frail; a term widely used although there is no consensus on the definition.

    Aims and Objectives: The aim of the study was to study the effect of classification of elderly into healthy, moderately healthy, and frail, based on activities of daily living (ADL) and Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) or frailty index (FI), on the interpretation of outcomes regarding: Albumin, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), creatinine, and gamma-glutamyltransferase (γ-GT) levels.

    Materials and Methods: Individuals ≥80 years (n=568) were classified either on ADL and MMSE or number of deficits, (FI).

    Results: Individuals classified as frail based on FI had lower mean levels for ALT, creatinine and γ-GT than individuals classified based on ADL and MMSE (P<0.05).

    Conclusion: The model to define health status to some extent affected laboratory analyte levels in ≥80 years old, classified as healthy, moderately healthy, and frail based on ADL and MMSE versus FI.

    Download full text (pdf)
    fulltext
  • 43.
    Egg, David
    et al.
    Albert Ludwig Univ Freiburg, Germany.
    Rump, Ina Caroline
    Albert Ludwig Univ Freiburg, Germany.
    Mitsuiki, Noriko
    Albert Ludwig Univ Freiburg, Germany.
    Rojas-Restrepo, Jessica
    Albert Ludwig Univ Freiburg, Germany.
    Maccari, Maria-Elena
    Albert Ludwig Univ Freiburg, Germany; Albert Ludwig Univ Freiburg, Germany.
    Schwab, Charlotte
    Albert Ludwig Univ Freiburg, Germany.
    Gabrysch, Annemarie
    Albert Ludwig Univ Freiburg, Germany.
    Warnatz, Klaus
    Albert Ludwig Univ Freiburg, Germany; Albert Ludwig Univ Freiburg, Germany.
    Goldacker, Sigune
    Albert Ludwig Univ Freiburg, Germany; Albert Ludwig Univ Freiburg, Germany.
    Patino, Virginia
    Amer Insurance, Uruguay.
    Wolff, Daniel
    Univ Hosp Regensburg, Germany.
    Okada, Satoshi
    Hiroshima Univ, Japan.
    Hayakawa, Seiichi
    Hiroshima Univ, Japan.
    Shikama, Yoshiaki
    Kanagawa Childrens Med Ctr, Japan.
    Kanda, Kenji
    Hikone Municipal Hosp, Japan.
    Imai, Kohsuke
    Tokyo Med & Dent Univ, Japan.
    Sotomatsu, Manabu
    Gunma Childrens Med Ctr, Japan.
    Kuwashima, Makoto
    Kiryu Kosei Gen Hosp, Japan.
    Kamiya, Takahiro
    Tokyo Med & Dent Univ, Japan.
    Morio, Tomohiro
    Tokyo Med & Dent Univ, Japan.
    Matsumoto, Kazuaki
    Gunma Childrens Med Ctr, Japan.
    Mori, Takeshi
    Hyogo Prefectural Kobe Childrens Hosp, Japan.
    Yoshimoto, Yuri
    Ctr Hosp Natl Ctr Global Hlth & Med, Japan.
    Dybedal, Ingunn
    Oslo Univ Hosp, Norway.
    Kanariou, Maria
    Aghia Sophia Childrens Hosp, Greece.
    Kucuk, Zeynep Yesim
    Childrens Hosp Med Ctr, OH USA.
    Chapdelaine, Hugo
    Montreal Clin Res Inst, Canada.
    Petruzelkova, Lenka
    Charles Univ Prague, Czech Republic.
    Lorenz, Hanns-Martin
    Heidelberg Univ, Germany.
    Sullivan, Kathleen E.
    Univ Penn, PA 19104 USA.
    Heimall, Jennifer
    Univ Penn, PA 19104 USA.
    Moutschen, Michel
    Univ Hosp Liege, Belgium.
    Litzman, Jiri
    Masaryk Univ, Czech Republic; St Annes Univ Hosp, Czech Republic.
    Recher, Mike
    Univ Hosp, Switzerland; Univ Hosp, Switzerland.
    Albert, Michael H.
    Ludwig Maximilians Univ Munchen, Germany.
    Hauck, Fabian
    Ludwig Maximilians Univ Munchen, Germany.
    Seneviratne, Suranjith
    UCL, England.
    Schmid, Jana Pachlopnik
    Univ Zurich, Switzerland.
    Kolios, Antonios
    Univ Zurich, Switzerland.
    Unglik, Gary
    Royal Melbourne Hosp, Australia.
    Klemann, Christian
    Albert Ludwig Univ Freiburg, Germany; Albert Ludwig Univ Freiburg, Germany.
    Snapper, Scott
    Harvard Med Sch, MA USA.
    Giulino-Roth, Lisa
    Weill Cornell Med, NY USA.
    Svaton, Michael
    Charles Univ Prague, Czech Republic; Univ Hosp Motol, Czech Republic.
    Platt, Craig D.
    Harvard Med Sch, MA 02115 USA; Harvard Med Sch, MA 02115 USA.
    Hambleton, Sophie
    Newcastle Upon Tyne Hosp NHS Fdn Trust, England; Newcastle Univ, England.
    Neth, Olaf
    Hosp Virgen del Roc, Spain.
    Gosse, Geraldine
    Univ Montreal, Canada.
    Reinsch, Steffen
    Jena Univ Hosp, Germany.
    Holzinger, Dirk
    Univ Duisburg Essen, Germany.
    Kim, Yae-Jean
    Sungkyunkwan Univ, South Korea.
    Bakhtiar, Shahrzad
    Goethe Univ Frankfurt, Germany.
    Atschekzei, Faranaz
    Hannover Med Sch, Germany.
    Schmidt, Reinhold
    Hannover Med Sch, Germany.
    Sogkas, Georgios
    Hannover Med Sch, Germany.
    Chandrakasan, Shanmuganathan
    Emory Univ, GA USA.
    Rae, William
    Univ Hosp Southampton NHSFT, England; Univ Hosp Southampton NHSFT, England.
    Derfalvi, Beata
    IWK Hlth Ctr, Canada; Dalhousie Univ, Canada.
    Marquart, Hanne Vibeke
    Univ Copenhagen, Denmark.
    Ozen, Ahmet
    Marmara Univ, Turkey.
    Kiykim, Ayca
    Marmara Univ, Turkey.
    Karakoc-Aydiner, Elif
    Marmara Univ, Turkey.
    Kralickova, Pavlina
    Charles Univ Prague, Czech Republic.
    de Bree, Godelieve
    Univ Amsterdam, Netherlands.
    Kiritsi, Dimitra
    Albert Ludwig Univ Freiburg, Germany.
    Seidel, Markus G.
    Med Univ Graz, Austria.
    Kobbe, Robin
    Univ Med Ctr Hamburg Eppendorf, Germany.
    Dantzer, Jennifer
    Johns Hopkins Univ, MD USA.
    Alsina, Laia
    Hosp St Joan de Deu, Spain; Inst Recerca St Joan de Deu, Spain; Univ Barcelona, Spain.
    Armangue, Thais
    Univ Barcelona, Spain.
    Lougaris, Vassilios
    Univ Barcelona, Spain.
    Agyeman, Philipp
    Univ Brescia, Italy; Univ Brescia, Italy.
    Nystrom, Sofia
    Univ Bern, Switzerland.
    Buchbinder, David
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine.
    Arkwright, Peter D.
    Childrens Hosp Orange Cty, CA USA.
    Grimbacher, Bodo
    Albert Ludwig Univ Freiburg, Germany; Albert Ludwig Univ Freiburg, Germany; Albert Ludwig Univ Freiburg, Germany; UCL, England; Univ Manchester, England; German Ctr Infect Res, Germany; Hannover Med Sch, Germany.
    Therapeutic options for CTLA-4 insufficiency2022In: Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, ISSN 0091-6749, E-ISSN 1097-6825, Vol. 149, no 2, p. 736-746Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Background: Heterozygous germline mutations in cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated antigen-4 (CTLA4) impair the immunomodulatory function of regulatory T cells. Affected individuals are prone to life-threatening autoimmune and lymphoproliferative complications. A number of therapeutic options are currently being used with variable effectiveness. Objective: Our aim was to characterize the responsiveness of patients with CTLA-4 insufficiency to specific therapies and provide recommendations for the diagnostic workup and therapy at an organ-specific level. Methods: Clinical features, laboratory findings, and response to treatment were reviewed retrospectively in an international cohort of 173 carriers of CTLA4 mutation. Patients were followed between 2014 and 2020 for a total of 2624 months from diagnosis. Clinical manifestations were grouped on the basis of organ-specific involvement. Medication use and response were recorded and evaluated. Results: Among the 173 CTLA4 mutation carriers, 123 (71%) had been treated for immune complications. Abatacept, rituximab, sirolimus, and corticosteroids ameliorated disease severity, especially in cases of cytopenias and lymphocytic organ infiltration of the gut, lungs, and central nervous system. Immunoglobulin replacement was effective in prevention of infection. Only 4 of 16 patients (25%) with cytopenia who underwent splenectomy had a sustained clinical response. Cure was achieved with stem cell transplantation in 13 of 18 patients (72%). As a result of the aforementioned methods, organ-specific treatment pathways were developed. Conclusion: Systemic immunosuppressants and abatacept may provide partial control but require ongoing administration. Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation offers a possible cure for patients with CTLA-4 insufficiency.

  • 44.
    Eklund, Anna
    et al.
    Jonkoping Cty Hosp Ryhov, Sweden.
    Link, Yumin
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Neurobiology. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Anaesthetics, Operations and Specialty Surgery Center, Neurologiska kliniken i Linköping.
    Kovacsovics, Bea
    Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Radiology in Linköping.
    Dahle, Charlotte
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Inflammation and Infection. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine.
    Vrethem, Magnus
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Neurobiology. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Anaesthetics, Operations and Specialty Surgery Center, Neurologiska kliniken i Linköping.
    Lind, Jonas
    Linköping University, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Division of Neurobiology. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Cty Hosp Ryhov, Sweden.
    Original OCT and VEP correlate to disability in secondary progressive multiple sclerosis2022In: Multiple Sclerosis and Related Disorders, ISSN 2211-0348, E-ISSN 2211-0356, Vol. 68, article id 104255Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Background: The afferent visual pathway provides a unique opportunity to monitor clinical and subclinical optic neuritis and features of neuroaxonal degeneration in secondary progressive MS.Objective: To investigate the usefulness of visual evoked potentials (VEP) and optical coherence tomography (OCT) in evaluating SPMS, and the association between these modalities and clinical course and lesion load on the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in patients with SPMS with or without a history of optic neuritis (ON). Methods: SPMS patients (n = 27) underwent clinical assessment with Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) grading, visual acuity, OCT, and VEP examination. MRI of the brain and spinal cord were evaluated. Ordinal scores of VEP and MRI findings were used in the statistical analyses.Results: The ganglion cell and inner plexiform layer (GCIPL) and retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness correlated with VEP latency. VEP P100 score correlated with EDSS. Linear regression showed an association between GCIPL thickness and EDSS as well as VEP P100 latency and EDSS. The MRI analyses were negative.Conclusion: VEP latency and GCIPL thickness correlated with disability measured as EDSS in patients with SPMS and are useful in monitoring SPMS patients.

    Download full text (pdf)
    fulltext
  • 45.
    Elbagir, Sahwa
    et al.
    Uppsala Univ, Sweden.
    Mohammed, NasrEldeen A.
    Al Neelain Univ, Sudan.
    Oke, Vilija
    Karolinska Inst, Sweden; Acad Specialist Ctr, Sweden.
    Larsson, Anders
    Uppsala Univ, Sweden.
    Nilsson, Jan
    Lund Univ, Sweden.
    Elshafie, Amir
    Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine. Uppsala Univ, Sweden.
    Elagib, Elnour M.
    Mil Hosp, Sudan.
    Nur, Musa A. M.
    Alribat Univ Hosp, Sudan.
    Gunnarsson, Iva
    Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institute, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.
    Svenungsson, Elisabet
    Karolinska Inst, Sweden.
    Ronnelid, Johan
    Uppsala Univ, Sweden.
    Anti-histone and anti-nucleosome rather than anti-dsDNA antibodies associate with IFN-induced biomarkers in Sudanese and Swedish SLE patients2024In: Rheumatology, ISSN 1462-0324, E-ISSN 1462-0332Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Objectives In SLE, anti-dsDNA can co-occur with autoantibodies against other chromatin components, like histones and nucleosomes. These antibodies induce type-1 interferon production, a hallmark of SLE. We measured ANA sub-specificities and investigated their associations to inflammatory biomarkers including interferon-regulated chemokines.Methods We included 93 Sudanese and 480 Swedish SLE patients and matched controls (N = 104 + 192). Autoantibodies targeting ANA sub-specificities: dsDNA, Sm, Sm/U1RNPcomplex, U1RNP, SSA/Ro52, SSA/Ro60, SSB/La, ribosomal P, PCNA and histones were quantified in all subjects, anti-nucleosome only in the Swedish patients, with a bead-based multiplex immunoassay. Levels of 72 plasma biomarkers were determined with the Proximity Extension Assay technique or ELISA.Results Among Sudanese patients, the investigated antibodies were significantly associated with 9/72 biomarkers. Anti-histone antibodies showed the strongest positive correlations with MCP-3 and S100A12 as well as with interferon I-inducible factors MCP-1 and CXCL10. Anti-dsDNA antibodies were associated with CXCL10 and S100A12, but in multivariate analyses, unlike anti-histone, associations lost significance. Among Swedish patients, MCP-1, CXCL10, and SA100A12 also demonstrated stronger associations to anti-histone and anti-nucleosome antibodies, compared with anti-dsDNA and other ANA sub-specificities. In multiple regression models, anti-histone/nucleosome retained the strongest associations. When excluding anti-histone or anti-nucleosome positive patients, the associations between MCP-1/CXCL10 and anti-dsDNA were lost. In contrast, when excluding anti-dsDNA positive patients, associations with anti-histone and anti-nucleosome remained significant.Results Among Sudanese patients, the investigated antibodies were significantly associated with 9/72 biomarkers. Anti-histone antibodies showed the strongest positive correlations with MCP-3 and S100A12 as well as with interferon I-inducible factors MCP-1 and CXCL10. Anti-dsDNA antibodies were associated with CXCL10 and S100A12, but in multivariate analyses, unlike anti-histone, associations lost significance. Among Swedish patients, MCP-1, CXCL10, and SA100A12 also demonstrated stronger associations to anti-histone and anti-nucleosome antibodies, compared with anti-dsDNA and other ANA sub-specificities. In multiple regression models, anti-histone/nucleosome retained the strongest associations. When excluding anti-histone or anti-nucleosome positive patients, the associations between MCP-1/CXCL10 and anti-dsDNA were lost. In contrast, when excluding anti-dsDNA positive patients, associations with anti-histone and anti-nucleosome remained significant.Conclusion In two cohorts of different ethnical origins, autoantibodies targeting chromatin correlate stronger with IFN-induced inflammatory biomarkers than anti-dsDNA or other ANA sub-specificities. Our results suggest that anti-histone/nucleosome autoantibodies may be the main drivers of type-1 interferon activity in SLE.

  • 46.
    Ellegård, Rada
    et al.
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Crisci, Elisa
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Andersson, Jonas
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Shankar, Esaki M.
    University of Malaya, Malaysia.
    Nyström, Sofia
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine.
    Hinkula, Jorma
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Larsson, Marie
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Impaired NK Cell Activation and Chemotaxis toward Dendritic Cells Exposed to Complement-Opsonized HIV-12015In: Journal of Immunology, ISSN 0022-1767, E-ISSN 1550-6606, Vol. 195, no 4, p. 1698-1704Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Mucosa resident dendritic cells (DCs) may represent one of the first immune cells that HIV-1 encounters during sexual transmission. The virions in body fluids can be opsonized with complement factors because of HIV-mediated triggering of the complement cascade, and this appears to influence numerous aspects of the immune defense targeting the virus. One key attribute of host defense is the ability to attract immune cells to the site of infection. In this study, we investigated whether the opsonization of HIV with complement (C-HIV) or a mixture of complement and Abs (CI-HIV) affected the cytokine and chemokine responses generated by DCs, as well as their ability to attract other immune cells. We found that the expression levels of CXCL8, CXCL10, CCL3, and CCL17 were lowered after exposure to either C-HIV or CI-HIV relative to free HIV (F-HIV). DCs exposed to F-HIV induced higher cell migration, consisting mainly of NK cells, compared with opsonized virus, and the chemotaxis of NK cells was dependent on CCL3 and CXCL10. NK cell exposure to supernatants derived from HIV-exposed DCs showed that F-HIV induced phenotypic activation (e.g., increased levels of TIM3, CD69, and CD25) and effector function (e.g., production of IFN gamma and killing of target cells) in NK cells, whereas C-HIV and CI-HIV did not. The impairment of NK cell recruitment by DCs exposed to complement-opsonized HIV and the lack of NK activation may contribute to the failure of innate immune responses to control HIV at the site of initial mucosa infection.

  • 47.
    Ellegård, Rada
    et al.
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Clinical genetics.
    Khalid, Mohammad
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. King Khalid Univ, Saudi Arabia.
    Svanberg, Cecilia
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Holgersson, Hanna
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Thoren, Ylva
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Wittgren, Mirja Karolina
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Hinkula, Jorma
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Nyström, Sofia
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine.
    Shankar, Esaki M.
    Univ Malaya, Malaysia; Cent Univ Tamil Nadu, India.
    Larsson, Marie
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Complement-Opsonized HIV-1 Alters Cross Talk Between Dendritic Cells and Natural Killer (NK) Cells to Inhibit NK Killing and to Upregulate PD-1, CXCR3, and CCR4 on T Cells2018In: Frontiers in Immunology, E-ISSN 1664-3224, Vol. 9, article id 899Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Dendritic cells (DCs), natural killer (NK) cells, and T cells play critical roles during primary HIV-1 exposure at the mucosa, where the viral particles become coated with complement fragments and mucosa-associated antibodies. The microenvironment together with subsequent interactions between these cells and HIV at the mucosal site of infection will determine the quality of immune response that ensues adaptive activation. Here, we investigated how complement and immunoglobulin opsonization influences the responses triggered in DCs and NK cells, how this affects their cross talk, and what T cell phenotypes are induced to expand following the interaction. Our results showed that DCs exposed to complement-opsonized HIV (C-HIV) were less mature and had a poor ability to trigger IFN-driven NK cell activation. In addition, when the DCs were exposed to C-HIV, the cytotolytic potentials of both NK cells and CD8 T cells were markedly suppressed. The expression of PD-1 as well as co-expression of negative immune checkpoints TIM-3 and LAG-3 on PD-1 positive cells were increased on both CD4 as well as CD8 T cells upon interaction with and priming by NK-DC cross talk cultures exposed to C-HIV. In addition, stimulation by NK-DC cross talk cultures exposed to C-HIV led to the upregulation of CD38, CXCR3, and CCR4 on T cells. Together, the immune modulation induced during the presence of complement on viral surfaces is likely to favor HIV establishment, dissemination, and viral pathogenesis.

    Download full text (pdf)
    fulltext
  • 48.
    Enocsson, Helena
    et al.
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Neuro and Inflammation Science. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Sjöwall, Christoffer
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Neuro and Inflammation Science. Region Östergötland, Heart and Medicine Center, Department of Rheumatology. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Wirestam, Lina
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Neuro and Inflammation Science. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Dahle, Charlotte
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Neuro and Inflammation Science. Region Östergötland, Center for Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Kastbom, Alf
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Neuro and Inflammation Science. Region Östergötland, Heart and Medicine Center, Department of Rheumatology. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Ronnelid, Johan
    Uppsala University, Sweden.
    Wetterö, Jonas
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Neuro and Inflammation Science. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Skogh, Thomas
    Linköping University, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Neuro and Inflammation Science. Region Östergötland, Heart and Medicine Center, Department of Rheumatology. Linköping University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
    Four Anti-dsDNA Antibody Assays in Relation to Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Specificity and Activity2015In: Journal of Rheumatology, ISSN 0315-162X, E-ISSN 1499-2752, Vol. 42, no 5, p. 817-825Article in journal (Refereed)
    Abstract [en]

    Objective. Analysis of antibodies against dsDNA is an important diagnostic tool for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and changes in anti-dsDNA antibody levels are also used to assess disease activity. Herein, 4 assays were compared with regard to SLE specificity, sensitivity, and association with disease activity variables. Methods. Cross-sectional sera from 178 patients with SLE, of which 11 were followed consecutively, from a regional Swedish SLE register were analyzed for immunoglobulin G (IgG) anti-dsDNA by bead-based multiplex assay (FIDIS; Theradig), fluoroenzyme-immunoassay (EliA; Phadia/Thermo Fisher Scientific), Crithidia luciliae immunofluorescence test (CLIFT; ImmunoConcepts), and line blot (EUROLINE; Euroimmun). All patients with SLE fulfilled the 1982 American College of Rheumatology and/or the 2012 Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics (SLICC-12) classification criteria. Healthy individuals (n = 100), patients with rheumatoid arthritis (n = 95), and patients with primary Sjogren syndrome (n = 54) served as controls. Results. CLIFT had the highest SLE specificity (98%) whereas EliA had the highest sensitivity (35%). When cutoff levels for FIDIS, EliA, and EUROLINE were adjusted according to SLICC-12 (i.e., double the reference limit when using ELISA), the specificity and sensitivity of FIDIS was comparable to CLIFT. FIDIS and CLIFT also showed the highest concordance (84%). FIDIS performed best regarding association with disease activity in cross-sectional and consecutive samples. Fishers exact test revealed striking differences between methods regarding associations with certain disease phenotypes. Conclusion. CLIFT remains a good choice for diagnostic purposes, but FIDIS performs equally well when the cutoff is adjusted according to SLICC-12. Based on results from cross-sectional and consecutive analyses, FIDIS can also be recommended to monitor disease activity.

    Download full text (pdf)
    fulltext
  • 49.
    Enocsson, Helena