Pilot analysis of Chitinase-3-like protein 1 and soluble Syndecan-1 CSF levels as potential biomarkers in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis

Uluc F., Ceylan D., Turkoglu S. A.

Journal of Neuroimmunology, vol.411, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 411
  • Publication Date: 2026
  • Doi Number: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2025.578836
  • Journal Name: Journal of Neuroimmunology
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, BIOSIS, Chemical Abstracts Core, EMBASE, MEDLINE, Psycinfo
  • Keywords: Biomarkers, Cerebrospinal fluid, Chitinase-3-like 1-protein, Multiple sclerosis, Syndecan-1
  • Kütahya Health Sciences University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Background Chitinase-3-like protein 1 (CHI3L1), secreted by immune cells, plays a key role in modulating immune responses. Syndecan-1 (SDC-1), a cell surface heparan sulfate proteoglycan, is involved in the regulation of inflammation. This study aimed to evaluate whether CHI3L1 and soluble SDC-1 (sSDC-1) act as potential diagnostic targets in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). Methods sSDC-1 and CHI3L1 levels were quantified using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples collected from a cohort of 39 newly diagnosed patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) and 32 disease controls diagnosed with idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH). Results No significant difference was observed in CSF sSDC-1 levels between the RRMS and IIH groups. However, CSF CHI3L1 levels were significantly lower in patients with RRMS compared to those with IIH. Conclusion The present findings do not provide clear evidence supporting a diagnostic role for CSF levels of sSDC-1 or CHI3L1 in MS.