Elevated IL-6 and NT-proBNP in Heart Failure: Assessing the Diagnostic Potential of NKX2-5 Gene Expression

Abstract

 INTRODUCTION:  Heart failure (HF) is a complex condition with inadequate cardiac output and elevated intracardiac pressures, prevalent among older populations worldwide. Chronic inflammation, marked by elevated cytokines like IL-6, and biomarkers such as NT-proBNP, are closely linked to heart function. The transcription factor NKX2-5, essential for heart development and maintenance, interacts with IL-6 and NT-proBNP, suggesting a role in inflammation and cardiac stress.AIM: The present study investigates the relationship between NT-proBNP, IL-6, and NKX2-5 in patients with heart failure. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study included 160 participants divided into two groups: Group I and Group II. Venous blood samples were centrifuged and stored at -20°C for analysis. Biochemical investigations included measurements of FBS, cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL, LDL, T3, T4, TSH, RNA isolation, cDNA synthesis, NKX2-5 gene expression, and ELISA assays for IL-6 and NT-proBNP. Statistical analyses encompassed descriptive statistics, t-tests, chi-square tests, logistic regression, ROC curve analysis, and Pearson correlation coefficients, among other methods. RESULTS:  The test and control groups exhibit significant differences in demographics and health factors. Genetic studies reveal reduced expression of the NKX2-5 gene in heart failure cases, potentially increasing the risk of developing the condition. Highly predictive biomarkers for heart failure include NT-proBNP and IL-6. Additionally, diabetes, dyslipidemia, and elevated IL-6 levels are identified as significant risk factors. Correlations between these biomarkers and physiological parameters suggest complex interactions underlying heart failure.

 CONCLUSION: The study found elevated IL-6 and NT-proBNP levels in heart failure patients, indicating increased inflammation and cardiac stress. An inverse correlation between NKX2-5 expression and these biomarkers suggests NKX2-5's potential role in regulating inflammation and cardiac function in heart failure.