Heat shock proteins (Hsp) play a complex role in cytoprotection, inflammation, and function of the immune system.

The purpose of a recent study published in the International Journal of Immunopathology and Pharmacology was to determine circulating Hsp70 and anti-Hsp70 antibodies concentrations in patients with chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU).

This study entailed measurement of concentrations of Hsp70 in plasma, anti-Hsp70 antibodies, and C-reactive protein (CRP) in serum of CSU patients and in the controls.

The results revealed that plasma Hsp70 concentrations were markedly higher in all CSU and mild CSU patients when compared to the controls. Meanwhile, moderate-severe CSU patients exhibited higher Hsp70 concentration as compared to the controls; this finding was not consistent in patients with mild activity of the disease. In fact, there were no significant differences in Hsp70 concentrations between moderate-severe and mild CSU patients. On the other hand, when compared to the controls, serum anti-Hsp70 antibodies concentrations were significantly higher in all CSU and mild CSU patients. Furthermore, an association was noted between anti-Hsp70 antibodies and increased CRP concentration. Whereas, no correlation between anti-Hsp70 and Hsp70 concentrations was observed.

From the findings, it was speculated that up-regulation of Hsp70 in CSU may trigger marked increase in anti-Hsp70 antibodies production, which are accompanied by congruent changes in CRP concentration. It was hypothesized that Hsp could be released in CSU in response to stressful stimuli, such as inflammation.¹

Reference

1. Kasperska-Zając A, Damasiewicz-Bodzek A, Bieniek K, Skrzypulec-Frankel A, Tyrpien-Golder K, Grzanka A. Elevated circulating heat shock protein 70 and its antibody concentrations in chronic spontaneous urticaria. International Journal of Immunopathology and Pharmacology. 2017:039463201775044. doi:10.1177/0394632017750440.