To measure serum levels of IgM and IgG natural autoantibodies against heat shock proteins (Hsp) 60 and Hsp70 in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) in remission and explore their associations with disease subtype, severity, and treatment.
Approach:
Study Design: Retrospective analysis of serum samples from 47 children with JIA in remission and 22 healthy controls, stratified by treatment regimen and disease subtype.
Measurement Method: Anti-Hsp60 and anti-Hsp70 IgM and IgG antibodies were measured using an in-house indirect ELISA.
Key Findings:
No significant differences in anti-Hsp60 or anti-Hsp70 nAAb levels between JIA patients and healthy controls or between treatment groups.
Lower anti-Hsp60 and anti-Hsp70 IgM levels were found in patients with polyarticular JIA compared to those with milder oligoarticular forms.
No significant differences in anti-Hsp60 or anti-Hsp70 IgG levels were observed.
Interpretation:
Reduced levels of natural IgM autoantibodies against Hsp60 and Hsp70 are associated with more severe JIA phenotypes during remission.
Limitations:
Small sample size of 47 JIA patients and 22 healthy controls.
Retrospective design may limit causal inferences.
Conclusion:
The findings support the potential immunoregulatory and protective roles of natural IgM autoantibodies in JIA.
