Cytokine and fibrogenic gene expression in the conjunctivas of subjects from a Gambian community where trachoma is endemic.

The role of immunity in blinding trachoma is unclear. Conjunctival gene expression was measured in a population where trachoma is endemic. Proinflammatory (tumor necrosis factor alpha and interleukin-1beta [IL-1beta]), anti-inflammatory (IL-10), and fibrogenic (matrix metalloprotease 9) gene expression was increased in active trachoma. Markers indicative of T-cell response (gamma interferon, IL-4, IL-12p40, and perforin) were increased when chlamydial infection was present.