Abstract: PURPOSE:To explore the expression and significance of Caspase-8 in the labial glands of patients with primary Sjogren’s Syndrome(pSS). Analysis the relationship between the expression of them and the clinical manifestations in pSS.METHODS:Fivty-five cases with pSS and fifteen controls were collected.Immunohistochemistry and Western blotting were used to examine Caspase-8 protein in labial glands of two groups,the IOD and the A were measured and the data were analyzed by statistical analysis.RESULTS:The expression of Caspase-8 protein in pSS was positively correlated with the disease course and significantly higher than those in control group(P<0.05),but has no correlation with the other clinical manifestations.CONCLUSIONS:The expression of Caspase-8 in pSS was increased,which was related to the disease course. Apoptosis pathway mediated by Caspase-8 may contribute to the formation and progression of pSS.

Key words: Sjogren’s syndrome, Labial gland, Apoptosis, Caspase-8