Characterization of lymphocytic subsets and cytokine production in gastric biopsy samples from Helicobacter pylori patients.

BACKGROUND

This study characterized the phenotypic subsets of isolated gastric lymphocytes and the cellular immune response in cultured gastric biopsy specimens.

METHODS

Endoscopy specimens from 40 Helicobacter pylori-positive and 40 H. pylori-negative patients were studied. a) Isolated gastric lymphocytes were analysed for CD4+, CD8+ T-lymphocyte subsets, activated T cells, and natural killer cells on a fluorescence-activated cell sorter, using monoclonal antibodies. b) The supernatant of cultured gastric biopsy specimens were assayed for interleukin (IL)-2, IL-4, and IL-6 levels.

RESULTS

In H. pylori-positive patients there was (a) a decrease in CD4+/CD8+ T cells, no change in activated T cells, and an increase in natural killer cells, and (b) no change in IL-2 levels and a significant increase in IL-4 and IL-6 levels.

CONCLUSIONS

There is an increase in CD8+ lymphocytes and natural killer cells, and the observed increase in IL-4 and IL-6 might be important in H. pylori-associated gastritis.