A protein extracted from Metagonimus yokogawai alleviates inflammation in patients with Ankylosing Spondylitis

Background Helminth infections and their components has been recognized to have a positive impact on the immune system. This study aimed to investigate the potential of Metagonimus yokogawai-derived proteins (MYp) to provide protection against ankylosing spondylitis (AS) through modulation of immune responses. Methods The cytotoxicity of MYp at various doses was first assessed using MTS and flow cytometry. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were collected from AS patients, and the production of inflammatory cytokines was analyzed through flow cytometry. In the experiments with SKG mice, MYp or vehicle was administered and inflammation was evaluated through immunohistochemistry and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results The results showed that MYp did not decrease cell viability of PBMCs even after 48 hours. Additionally, the frequencies of IFN-γ and IL-17A producing cells were significantly reduced after MYp treatment in the PBMC cultures. In the SKG mouse model, MYp treatment could reduce serum levels of INF- γ, IL-17A, and TNF-α. Overall, MYp treatment significantly suppressed arthritis and enthesitis in the SKG mouse model. Conclusions The results suggest the first evidence that MYp can effectively alleviate clinical symptoms and restore cytokine balance in patients with AS.