Elevated levels of Metrnl in rheumatoid arthritis: Association with disease activity

Cytokine. 2022 Nov:159:156026. doi: 10.1016/j.cyto.2022.156026. Epub 2022 Sep 7.

Abstract

Background: Meteorin-like (Metrnl) is a novel adipokine that is highly expressed in white adipose tissues. Whether Metrnl plays a role in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) remains unclear. In this study, sera from 159 RA patients, 28 osteoarthritis (OA) patients, and 50 healthy individuals were included. The serum levels of Metrnl were measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Clinical parameters, including disease activity score 28 (DAS28), C-reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), rheumatoid factor (RF), antibodies to cyclic citrulline peptide (anti-CCP), inflammatory cytokines, and blood biochemical indices were collected.

Results: Metrnl levels were higher in RA patients compared to OA patients and controls. In the RA group, serum Metrnl levels were positively correlated with DAS28, RF, and CRP levels. However, in the RA group, serum Metrnl levels were not correlated with ESR, anti-CCP, immunoglobulins, and blood biochemical indices.

Conclusion: This study showed that Metrnl is involved in the pathogenesis of RA. Increase in serum Metrnl levels is closely related to RA activity.

Keywords: DAS28; Metrnl; Rheumatoid arthritis.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adipokines
  • Anti-Citrullinated Protein Antibodies
  • Arthritis, Rheumatoid*
  • Blood Sedimentation
  • C-Reactive Protein / metabolism
  • Citrulline
  • Cytokines
  • Humans
  • Osteoarthritis*
  • Peptides, Cyclic
  • Rheumatoid Factor

Substances

  • Adipokines
  • Anti-Citrullinated Protein Antibodies
  • Cytokines
  • Metrnl protein, human
  • Peptides, Cyclic
  • Citrulline
  • C-Reactive Protein
  • Rheumatoid Factor