METHODS: Electronic databases were searched for studies investigating IL-37 and SLE. Data on IL-37 levels, SLE Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI) score, genetic polymorphisms, and its therapeutic effects from pre-clinical studies were extracted.
RESULTS: Previous studies presented conflicting findings on IL-37 levels in SLE patients. Some reported positive correlations with disease activity, while others observed associations between lower IL-37 and increased activity. Genetic variations in the IL-37 gene linked to SLE susceptibility have been reported. Pre-clinical studies using engineered mesenchymal stem cells or direct IL-37 treatment showed promise in reducing disease severity in mouse models and cell cultures of SLE. The analysis of multiple studies reveals that IL-37 expression varies significantly across different SLE subtypes.
CONCLUSIONS: While a potential link exists between IL and 37 and disease activity, genetic predisposition, and therapeutic benefit, further research is needed. Future studies with standardized designs, larger and more diverse populations, and mechanistic investigations are crucial to determine the therapeutic potential of IL-37 for SLE. This review highlights the need for well-designed clinical trials to evaluate the safety and efficacy of IL-37 therapy in patients with SLE.
OBJECTIVE: Hence, this study aimed to determine the effects of bedak sejuk made from Oryza sativa ssp. indica (Indica) and Oryza sativa ssp. japonica (Japonica) on UVB-induced B164A5 melanoma cells, and also identify the antioxidant capacities of both types of bedak sejuk.
METHODS: The optimum dose of Indica and Japonica bedak sejuk to treat the cells was determined via the MTT assay. Then, the antioxidant capacities of both types of bedak sejuk were determined using the FRAP assay.
RESULTS: From the MTT assay, it was found that Indica and Japonica bedak sejuk showed no cytotoxic effects towards the cells. Hence, no IC50 can be obtained and two of the higher doses, 50 and 100 g/L were chosen for treatment. In the FRAP assay, Indica bedak sejuk at 50 and 100 g/L showed FRAP values of 0.003 ± 0.001 μg AA (ascorbic acid)/g of bedak sejuk and 0.004 ± 0.0003 μg AA/g of bedak sejuk. Whereas Japonica bedak sejuk at 50 g/L had the same FRAP value as Indica bedak sejuk at 100 g/L. As for Japonica bedak sejuk at 100 g/L, it showed the highest antioxidant capacity with the FRAP value of 0.01 ± 0.0007 μg AA/g of bedak sejuk which was statistically significant (p < 0.05) when compared to other tested concentrations.
CONCLUSION: In conclusion, Japonica bedak sejuk has a higher antioxidant capacity compared to Indica bedak sejuk despite both being not cytotoxic towards the cells. Regardless, further investigations need to be done before bedak sejuk could be developed as potential melanoma chemoprevention agents.