Time-Dependent Changes in YKL-40 and Inflammatory Markers in Experimental Acute Mesenteric Ischemia

BACKGROUND: Early diagnosis of acute mesenteric ischemia (AMI) remains challenging due to the lack of reliable biomarkers. This study aimed to investigate the time-dependent changes in chitinase-3-like protein 1 (YKL-40) and selected inflammatory markers in an experimental AMI model. METHODS: A randomized controlled experimental study was conducted on 48 Wistar-Albino rats. Mesenteric ischemia was induced by ligation of the superior mesenteric artery. Blood and tissue samples were collected at 1, 3, and 6 hours. Serum YKL-40, interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-10 (IL-10) and lactate levels were measured, and histopathological damage was assessed. RESULTS: IL-6 levels increased significantly as early as 1 hour (p = 0.010) and showed a progressive rise over time (p < 0.001), with a strong positive correlation with histopathological damage (r = 0.805). Lactate levels increased significantly at later time points. YKL-40 levels did not differ in the early phase but were significantly elevated at 6 hours (p < 0.001). IL-10 levels decreased significantly in advanced ischemia (p = 0.005). CONCLUSION: IL-6 showed an early increase and a strong association with histopathological damage, whereas YKL-40 appeared to be associated with later-stage inflammation rather than early ischemic injury. These findings highlight the importance of time-dependent biomarker interpretation and support further evaluation of combined biomarker strategies in AMI.