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Study the Role of Leptin and Iron Biomarkers in the Immune Response to Entamoeba histolytica Infection

. Neama Ali Ahmed & Muhannad Abdullah Al-Azzawy


Abstract

Background: The immune response in Entamoeba histolytica infection involves a complex interplay of host immune cells, inflammatory mediators, and the invading parasite.Aim: The  aim of this study is to investigate the role of leptin, Interleukin 6, serum hepcidin, serum iron and ferritin  in patients with Entamoeba histolytica infection.Materials and methods: The study was conducted from November 2021 to May 2022 to investigate the role of leptin, Interleukin 6 (IL-6), serum hepcidin, serum iron, and ferritin in patients with Entamoeba histolytica infection. Stool samples were collected from 50 patients presenting with diarrhea and/or abdominal discomfort, along with 50 healthy individuals as controls. Microscopy was performed on stool samples to detect E. histolytica. Positive samples were further examined using wet mount preparations with normal saline, buffered methylene blue, and Lugol's iodine. Diagnostic Automation ELISA was conducted on microscopy-positive stool samples to detect antigens. Blood samples were collected from all participants for the measurement of serum leptin, IL-6, serum hepcidin, serum iron, and ferritin using ELISA and commercial lab kits. Statistical analysis was performed on the collected data using appropriate tests. Ethical approval and informed consent were obtained before the study. The specific concentrations and details of reagents and kits used should adhere to standardized protocols and manufacturer's instructions.Results:   The mean ferritin level in patients with amebic dysentery is 66.85 ng/ml, while in the control group it is higher at 125.6 ng/ml. This discrepancy suggests an alteration in iron metabolism and availability in patients with amebic dysentery. Table 6 presents the comparison of serum iron levels between patients with amebic dysentery and a control group. The mean serum iron level in patients with amebic dysentery is 126.8 g/dl, while in the control group it is substantially higher at 311.5 g/dl. Table 7 presents the comparison of serum hepcidin levels between patients with amebic dysentery and a control group. The mean serum hepcidin level in patients with amebic dysentery is 12.76 ng/ml, while in the control group it is higher at 33.67 ng/ml. Table 8 presents the comparison of serum IL-6 levels between children with amebic dysentery and a control group. The mean serum IL-6 level in children with amebic dysentery is 198.6 ng/ml, while in the control group it is lower at 87.8 ng/ml.

Keywords: leptin, Interleukin 6, hepcidin, iron,  Entamoeba histolytica

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