Evaluation of interleukin 6 and interleukin 4 levels in the serum of type 1 diabetic patients
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Abstract
Cytokines play critical roles in regulating interactions between pancreatic beta cells and immune cells in the development of type 1 diabetes. It has been shown that pro-inflammatory cytokines released during the disease can exacerbate the disease, while anti-inflammatory cytokines provide protection.
This study aimed to evaluate IL-6 and IL-4 levels in the serum of children with type 1 diabetes and compare them to healthy controls.
Seventy children with type 1 diabetes and 33 children without diabetes were recruited between September and December 2024. Serum levels of interleukin-6 and interleukin-4 were measured using an ELISA test. The results of this study showed a higher mean IL-6 concentration in patients (12.95±0.83) compared to healthy controls (2.62±0.33), with a significant difference (p=0.001). The average IL-4 concentration in healthy controls was higher (41.77±13.34) compared to healthy controls (18.71±7.08), but without a significant difference (p=0.10). The study also showed significant differences in IL-6 and IL-4 concentrations in children with type 1 diabetes and the duration of the disease. There was a positive relationship between IL-6 concentrations and cumulative blood sugar, body mass index, and fasting blood sugar. No significant differences were found in IL-6 levels between males and females with diabetes.
Conclusion: The evidence from this study supports the possibility of a chronic inflammatory state in children with type 1 diabetes, as evidenced by elevated serum IL-6 levels. The longer the disease lasts, the more severe the effects become, potentially leading to microvascular disorders, eye problems, and kidney problems.
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