Assessment of the levels of nitric oxide (NO) and cytokines (IL-5, IL-6, IL-13, TNF, IFN-gamma) in giardiosis

Abstract

The current study aims to determine the involvement of cellular responses in combating Giardia intestinalis invasion. The study group consisted of 44 women and 18 men, aged 18–72 years, infected with G. intestinalis. The diagnosis was established based on laboratory investigations (examination of stool, choloscopy, GSA-65). Blood for analysis was collected before antiparasitic treatment and two weeks after treatment termination. The control group consisted of 22 women and 18 men aged 20–45 years. The serum concentrations of IL-5, IL-6, IL-13, TNF, IFN-γ were assayed using a set of Quantikine human. The concentrations of NO in the serum were determined using a set of Total Nitric Oxide Assay. Patients infected with G. intestinalis showed a statistically significant increase in the levels of NO, IFN-g and IL-13. Even the antiparasitic treatment applied did not reduce the levels of these parameters and only caused a rise in IL-6. Our study showed a lack of acute inflammatory state in the course of G. intestinalis infection. (Folia Histochemica et Cytobiologica 2011; Vol. 49, No. 2, pp. 280–284)