Immunological and Genetic Profiling in ITP: A Comparative Study of IL-37, ANA, and PTPN22 Gene Expression in Patients and Healthy Controls

Background: Immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) defined as autoimmune disorder characterized by a reduction in platelet count due to immune system-mediated destruction. Recent scientific efforts are directed to investigate different immunological factors, mainly interleukin-37 (IL-37), antinuclear antibodies (ANA), and gene expressions of some modulators such as PTPN22 gene. Objective: The current research was designed to investigate and compare the expression levels of these markers, mainly the IL-37, ANA, and the PTPN22 gene. The study group includes individuals diagnosed with ITP and healthy control to reveal the diagnostic and pathogenic relevance of these markers. Methods: The methodology includes blood samples collections followed by investigation the expression level using qPCR, ELISA method used to evaluate the concentration of IL-37 and ANA. Reveled results subjected to further analysis to conclude the statistical relationship between study subjects. Results: The results confirmed the reduction of IL-37 and ANA in the ITP group compared to the control group; however, these differences did not reach statistical significance (P = 0.1907 for ANA, P = 0.6389 for IL-37). However, the PTPN22 level was notably downregulated in patients with ITP, with a P-value approaching significance (P = 0.0721), suggesting a potential immunological association. Conclusion: The current results suggest an underlying immune dysregulation based on the observed expression pattern of PTPN22 represented by possible genetic susceptibility. However, further studies are highly recommended to investigate the role of IL-37 and ANA in ITP and to shed the light on the genetic mechanisms that resulted in downregulation of PTPN22.