Gene expression of Interleukin-10 and Foxp3 as critical biomarkers in rheumatoid arthritis patients

Abstract

Introduction and Aim: Forkhead box P3 (FOXP3) and interleukin-10 (IL-10) are the key regulators controlling the activity of Treg cells, which are crucial for maintaining immune tolerance and reducing autoimmune reactions. The objective of this study was to investigate the potential utility of elevated levels of FOXP3 and IL-10 gene expression as a diagnostic indicator in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Materials and Methods: The study used quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) to examine the expression levels of FOXP3 and IL-10 transcripts in whole blood samples from Iraqi patients with rheumatoid arthritis. A group of healthy control subjects were also included in the study. Results: In blood samples taken from Iraqi patients diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, a statistically significant decrease (P 0.01) in the expression levels of the FOXP3 gene and a statistically significant elevation (P 0.01) of IL-10 expression were seen in contrast to the healthy control group. Conclusion: Rheumatoid arthritis patients in Iraq may benefit from FOXP3 and IL-10 gene expression tests. IL-10 and FOXP3 overexpression promotes T cell and immune system immunoreactivity.