J. Feyertag et al., Serum levels of soluble CD44 variant 5 in patients with seropositive rheumathoid arthritis treated with cyclosporin A, ACT MED AUS, 27(5), 2000, pp. 156-159
CD44 is a widely expressed cell surface glycoprotein which is involved in m
any cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions. Expression of soluble CD44 spli
ce variants is strictly regulated and is linked to a high rate of cell divi
sion. Serum levels of soluble CD44 variant 5 (sCD44v5) were determined in 1
4 patients with erosive RA. Patients were divided into two groups. In group
1 cyclosporin A treatment (CYA) was initiated after the first visit. In gr
oup 2 preliminary CYA was continuated. Controls were performed after 6 mont
hs. We found a significant decrase of swollen joint count (SJC) and sCD44v5
in group 1. No effect of CYA was found on c-reactive protein, erythrocyte
sedimentation rate and IgM-rheumatoid factor (IgM-RF). In group 2 a signifi
cant decrease of CRP was found. Therefore we conclude that measurement of s
CD44v5 might be useful in monitoring RA+ patients with CYA.