Activation of NF-κB in lymphocytes and increase in serum immunoglobulin in hyperthyroidism: Possible role of oxidative stress

This study evaluated oxidative stress, serum IgM and IgG, and nuclear factor (NF)-κB signaling in lymphocytes of hyperthyroidism patients. GSH content in lymphocytes was significantly lower and serum malondialdehyde, IgM and IgG levels were significantly higher in hyperthyroidism as compared to controls. In lymphocytes, the NF-κB signaling pathway was studied by western blot analysis of p65 and p-IκBα. Density of p-IκBα and p65 (in nuclear fraction) was significantly higher in hyperthyroidism as compared to controls. The density of p-IκBα and p65 had significant positive correlation with serum malondialdehyde level and negative correlation with lymphocyte GSH level in hyperthyroid cases. The serum IgG and IgM levels were correlated significantly with density of p-IκBα and p65. As immunoglobulin production is regulated by the NF-κB pathway, we conclude that the oxidative stress-induced activation of the NF-κB pathway might play a role in the rise of serum immunoglobulin level in hyperthyroidism.