Biomolecules (Mar 2021)

The Expression of IL-17, in Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria Is Linked to Semaphorin5A

  • Matanis Lobna,
  • Eiza Nasren,
  • Sabag Adi,
  • Bejar Jacob,
  • Gimenez-Arnau Ana Maria,
  • Maurer Marcus,
  • Vadasz Zahava

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3390/biom11030373
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 11, no. 3
p. 373

Abstract

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Background: Patients with chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU), an autoimmune disorder, show increased skin expression of IL-17A and can benefit from treatment with the anti-IL-17A biologic secukinumab. The mechanisms that drive IL-17A expression in CSU are currently unknown, but may involve Semaphorin5A (Sema5A). Objective: To explore the expression, role, and effects of Sema5A in CSU and its link to IL-17A. Material and Methods: We investigated patients with CSU and healthy controls for skin expression of expressing peripheral T cells. Results: Sema5A was highly expressed in the skin of CSU patients as compared to healthy control skin. Both CD4+ T cells and mast cells in CSU skin expressed Sema5A, and many of them expressed both Sema5A and IL-17A. Patients with CSU had significantly higher rates of IL-17A-expressing CD4+ T cells as compared to healthy controls. Incubation with Sema5A increased the rates of IL-17A-expressing CD4+ T cells in healthy controls to CSU levels. Conclusion: Sema5A may drive the expression and effects of IL-17A in CSU. Further studies in larger cohorts are needed to confirm the role of Sema5A in the pathogenesis of CSU and to explore its potential as a therapeutic target.

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