Increased Level of Interleukin-17 in Children and Adolescents with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus and its Association with Vitamin D Deficiency

Introduction: The up-regulation of interleukin-17 (IL-17) has been reported to be the pathogenesis of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1D). On the other hand, vitamin D deficiency is fairly prevalent in T1D. This study aims to investigate IL-17 and vitamin D status and its correlation in children and adolescents with T1D. Material and Methods: A cross sectional study was carried out between January to March 2017. A total of 20 patients aged 12.25±3.74 years old with T1D and 20 healthy control group were involved. Their parents signed an informed consent. Demographic data were obtained using structured questionnaires. Physical, and laboratory examination were also performed. Blood samples were collected and serum vitamin D and IL-17 levels were measured by indirect ELISA were. Results: The serum level of vitamin D serum and IL-17 level between both groups were significantly different (p<0.001). A positive correlation between vitamin D and IL-17 levels (p<0.05; r=+0.566) was found. Conclusion: T1D is a T cell-mediated autoimmune disorder which targets and destroys insulin-producing pancreatic beta-cells. Children and adolescents with T1D show an increased level of IL-17 immunity and vitamin D deficiency. IL-17 immunity control and vitamin D supplementation could be potential targets for further development of T1D therapeutic strategies.