Plasma Chitotriosidase Activity and Arteriogenic Erectile Dysfunction: Association with the Presence, Severity, and Duration

Chitotriosidase as a novel biomarker of early atherosclerosis in hemodialysis patients

INTRODUCTION

Increasing evidence suggests that inflammation and increased macrophage activity have a central role in pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. It is shown that chitotriosidase (CHIT-1) is a marker of macrophage activity in atherosclerotic plaque, and is found associated with severity of atherosclerotic lesion. There is no data about CHIT-1 activity of hemodialysis patients in the literature. Thus, we hypothesized that in hemodialysis patients, CHIT-1 levels might be a novel biomarker in early atherosclerosis.

METHODS

Forty-five hemodialysis patients were included in the study (age: 61.93 ± 13.34). Intima media thickness (IMT) was evaluated with high-resolution B-mode ultrasonography. Biomarker levels were measured in serum of patients.

FINDINGS

We found positive correlation among IMT, age (R: 0.426, P: 0.004) and, CHIT-1 value (R: 0.462, P: 0.001) in spearman correlation analysis. When age, CRP, creatinine, P, Alb, CHIT-1 were chosen as measures that can effect IMT in multiple regression model, IMT level was related with CHIT-1 (Beta: 0,396, P: 0.012) and age (Beta: 0,313 P: 0,048) independently.

DISCUSSION

In conclusion, this is the first report showing that serum CHIT-1 level was related independently with carotid IMT in hemodialysis patients. This biomarker might have an unknown role in the development of atherosclerosis during uremia.

Immunomodulatory Effects of Chitotriosidase Enzyme

Chitotriosidase enzyme (EC: 3.2.1.14) is the major active chitinase in the human body. It is produced mainly by activated macrophages, in which its expression is regulated by multiple intrinsic and extrinsic signals. Chitotriosidase was confirmed as essential element in the innate immunity against chitin containing organisms such as fungi and protozoa; however, its immunomodulatory effects extend far beyond innate immunity. In the current review, we will try to explore the expanding spectrum of immunological roles played by chitotriosidase enzyme in human health and disease and will discuss its up-to-date clinical value.