Serum concentration of TNFSF14/LIGHT receptors DcR3 and HVEM in asthma patients.

Tumor necrosis factor family member 14 (TNFSF14/LIGHT) plays a role in the process of airway remodeling and its effects are regulated by decoy receptors DcR3 and HVEM. Our previous study demonstrated that TNFSF14/LIGHT concentration is elevated in asthmatic patients. The aim of this study was to evaluate serum concentration of DcR3 and HVEM in asthmatic patients. Serum samples were obtained from 42 asthmatic patients (A), including 28 controlled on inhaled corticosteroids (AICS) and 14 during asthma exacerbation before systemic corticosteroids therapy (AEX). In the latter group serum samples were also obtained during remission while still on oral corticosteroids (AOCS). In addition, 12 allergic rhinitis patients (AR) and 24 healthy controls were included (HC). Concentration of DcR3 and HVEM was evaluated using ELISA method. The mean concentration of DcR3 and HVEM did not differ significantly between A and AR (p>0.05 for both), both being significantly greater than in HC (p<0.01 for each comparison). Among asthmatic patients serum concentration of DcR3 was significantly greater in AEX than in AICS (p<0.001) both being significantly greater than in HC (p<0.001). No significant difference of serum HVEM concentration could be demonstrated between individual subgroups of asthmatic patients. Significant decrease of serum DcR3 concentration could be demonstrated in AOCS (p<0.01) in comparison to AEX. No significant difference of serum HVEM concentration between AEX and AOCS could be demonstrated (p>0.05). In asthmatic patients altered expression of DcR3 and HVEM expression may participate in regulation of TNFSF14/LIGHT-dependent airway remodeling and progression of asthma.