Elevated levels of plasma angiogenic factors are associated with human aldar lymphatic filarial infections.

Bennuru, S.; Maldarelli, G.; Kumaraswami, V.; Klion, A.D.; Nutman, T.B.

American Journal of Tropical Medicine & Hygiene; 2010; 83; 884-890.     

Abstract: Lymphatic dilatation, dysfunction, and lymphangiogenesis are hallmarks of patent lymphatic filariasis, observed even in those with subclinical microfilaremia, through processes associated, in part, by vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs). A panel of pro-angiogenic factors was measured in the plasma of subjects from filaria-endemic regions using multiplexed immunological assays. Compared with endemic normal control subjects, those with both subclinical microfilaremia, and those with longstanding lymphedema had significantly elevated levels of VEGF-A, VEGF-C, VEGF-D, and angiopoeitins (Ang-1/Ang-2), with only levels of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and placental growth factor (PlGF) being elevated only if lymphedema was evident. Furthermore, levels of these factors 1-year posttreatment ith doxycycline were similar to pretreatment levels suggesting a minimal role, if any, for Wolbachia . Our data support the concept that filarial infection per se is associated with elevated levels of most of the known pro-angiogenic factors, with only a few being associated with the serious pathologic consequences associated with Wuchereria bancrofti infection.

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