In conclusion we found an association between IL10, FAS, and TLR4 in the donor and IL18 in the recipient and an increased risk of developing aGvHD in transplanted children.
Interleukin-18 (IL-18) is involved in endothelial activation and dysfunction, and in the pathogenesis and severity of acute graft-versus-host disease (aGVHD).
These findings suggest that the expression of IL-18R is upregulated in T cells in patients with aGVHD and that the IL-18/IL-18R system is active during aGVHD.
Increased serum levels of CXCL10 and IL-18 preceded symptoms of aGvHD, accompanied by increased responsiveness to CXCL10 by blood CD4<sup>+</sup> T cells.