Is There a Correlation Between Myeloid Cells Expressing CD64 and Endoscopic Disease Severity?

In this video module, Amy Stewart, NP, from Capital Digestive Care, in Washington, D.C., explores the potential correlation between CD64-expressing myeloid cells and endoscopic disease severity in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

CD64 is a plasma membrane receptor found on myeloid cells, a category of blood cells originating from the bone marrow. Myeloid cells include monocytes, macrophages, granulocytes, and dendritic cells, all of which play an essential role in the innate immune response.

In IBD, these immune cells contribute to inflammation through the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-23 and IL-12, which are generated by mononuclear phagocytes. Research has identified CD64-positive myeloid cells as a primary source of IL-23 in inflamed gut tissues, particularly in patients with Crohn’s disease.

One study has demonstrated that in patients with Crohn’s disease, the Simple Endoscopic Score for Crohn’s Disease (SES-CD) was positively correlated with the presence of CD64-expressing cells. Additionally, CD64-positive cells accumulate in inflamed colonic tissues, and their proportion is directly associated with disease severity, regardless of treatment history, demographics, or disease classification.

Understanding the underlying pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease is crucial for treatment decision-making. The presence of CD64-positive myeloid cells as key players in IL-23-driven inflammation suggests that targeting these pathways could provide new therapeutic insights for managing moderate to severe IBD.

For more insights on emerging research in IBD, visit the GHAPP website for the latest updates on disease mechanisms, treatment options, and clinical guidelines.