Role of interleukin-10 and interleukin-24 in the pathogenesis of B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia

Abstract

Aim. To study serum levels of immunosuppressive cytokines (interleukin (IL)-10 and IL-24) in patients with B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia for assessment of the disease progression and elaboration of a new treatment strategy. Methods. 120 patients with B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia were enrolled in the study and divided into four groups according to the disease stage (Rai stage I-IV). Control group included 30 healthy volunteers. Concentrations of IL-10 and IL-24 were measured in serum using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results. Serum levels of IL-10 and IL-24 levels were significantly increased in all patient groups compared to the control. No difference in the cytokines levels between the patient groups was observed. Conclusion. In patients with B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia, the increased serum level of IL-10 might impair the antitumor defence by inhibiting the cell immune response and preventing apoptosis of malignant lymphocytes. On the other hand, the increased serum level of IL-24 might oppose these effects by promoting cellular differentiation and inducing apoptosis in malignant cells. Therefore, correction of IL-10/IL-24 imbalance may be a beneficial therapeutic strategy for patients with B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia.