Circulating soluble receptor for advanced glycation end products is decreased and inversely associated with acute phase response in chronic spontaneous urticaria

BACKGROUND: Activation of receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) leads to the proinflammatory response and the release of its soluble form (sRAGE) which appears to function as an anti-inflammatory feedback mechanism. AIM: To determine serum sRAGE concentration in CSU patients and its association with C-reactive protein (CRP) concentration, a nonspecific inflammatory marker of the disease activity. METHODS: Concentrations of sRAGE and CRP were measured in serum of CSU patients and compared with the healthy controls. RESULTS: Serum sRAGE concentrations were significantly decreased in CSU patients, especially those more severely affected. In addition, significant inverse correlations were observed between sRAGE and CRP concentrations. CONCLUSIONS: Down-regulation of sRAGE and its association with acute phase response suggest a role for RAGE activation in the pathogenesis of CSU. It seems that lower serum sRAGE concentration may enhance the urticarial processes.