Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor and Interleukin-1 Beta as Novel Biomarkers in Patients Infected With E.Coli O157:H7 And Entamoeba Histolytica

Background: The immune response to E. coli O157:H7 and Entamoeba histolytica (E.histolytica) includes both humoral and cellular components; however, despite the immune response, these organisms are able to evade host defenses through production of anti-phagocytic factors and toxins which hinder immune cell functions, making resolution of disease more difficult. Objective: The aim was to study the immunological role and correlation of Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and Interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) in patients with diarrhea due to E. coli O157:H7 and E. histolytica. Methodology: This study enrolled 60 healthy participants as a control group, 30 patients infected with E. histolytica, 30 patients infected with E. coli O157:H7 and E. histolytica were the case group. PCR was used to diagnose E. coli O157:H7. E. histolytica was diagnosed by using wet mount examination with 0.85% saline and Lugol’s iodine. BDNF and IL-1β have been measured in patients' blood using the ELISA technique. Results: The patients who had E. histolytica infection or co-infections showed significantly heightened IL-1β concentrations above normal values and co-infected patients demonstrated the most extreme IL-1β response pattern. Patients infected with E. histolytica exhibited a positive yet insignificant correlation pattern between BDNF and IL-1β levels that also applied to patients with co-infections. Conclusion: Patients co-infected with E. coli O157:H7 and E. histolytica, as well as E. histolytica alone, had markedly elevated levels of IL-1β in the blood profile, whereas BDNF levels were unaffected by the intestinal infection.