Conclusions
PVOD is characterized by alterations of circulating cytotoxic cell subpopulations and by epigenetic dysregulation within the GNLY gene. Our findings may be helpful in the quest to develop needed diagnostic tools, including flow cytometry analyses, to screen for suspected PVOD in patients with pulmonary hypertension.
Methods
The overall functional status of the cytolytic compartment was studied through epigenetic analysis of the GNLY gene in explanted lungs and in peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Flow cytometry technology allowed analysis of specific circulating cytolytic cells and GNLY contents. A GNLY-specific ELISA allowed measurement of GNLY serum concentrations. Measurements and main
Results
A decrease in GNLY demethylation in the gDNA extracted from peripheral blood mononuclear cells and explanted lungs was found specifically in PVOD but not in PAH. This was associated with a decrease in populations and subpopulations of CTL and NKT and an increase of NK populations. Despite the reduced granulysin-containing cells in patients with PVOD, GNLY serum levels were higher, suggesting these cells were wasting their content. Furthermore, the increase of GNLY concentration in the serum of PVOD was significantly higher than in patients with PAH. Conclusions: PVOD is characterized by alterations of circulating cytotoxic cell subpopulations and by epigenetic dysregulation within the GNLY gene. Our findings may be helpful in the quest to develop needed diagnostic tools, including flow cytometry analyses, to screen for suspected PVOD in patients with pulmonary hypertension.