GOLD-Induced Cytokine (GOLDIC): A Critical Review of Its Properties, Synthesis, and Biomedical Applications.

This narrative review examines the intricate landscape of gold-induced cytokine responses, delving into the anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating properties of gold compounds, with a primary focus on their application in treating rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune conditions. Utilizing a comprehensive search strategy across major scientific databases, we identified and analyzed a diverse range of studies published within the last two decades. The aim of this review is to provide a nuanced understanding of the current state of knowledge, addressing key questions regarding the mechanisms by which gold compounds modulate cytokine responses and their clinical implications. Our review encompasses an in-depth exploration of the anti-inflammatory effects of gold compounds, emphasizing their impact on pro-inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin 1β (IL-1β), and interleukin 6 (IL-6). Moreover, we investigate the lesser-explored terrain of immune modulation, shedding light on the ability of gold compounds to influence anti-inflammatory cytokines, notably interleukin 10 (IL-10). Through an extensive analysis of the literature, we unravel the multifaceted mechanisms underlying gold-induced cytokine responses, including the inhibition of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) signaling and interference with janus kinase/signal transducers and activators of transcription (JAK/STAT) pathways. In exploring the clinical applications of gold-induced cytokine modulation, we synthesize findings from relevant studies, elucidating the potential of gold compounds as therapeutic agents. However, challenges such as variability in formulations and diverse cytokine assessment methods are discussed, emphasizing the need for standardization in both research and clinical settings. Looking ahead, our scoping review identifies key unanswered questions and proposes future directions for research in this domain. We discuss emerging therapeutic strategies, considering the integration of gold compounds with other modalities to optimize treatment outcomes. This comprehensive review serves as a foundational resource for researchers, clinicians, and policymakers seeking a nuanced understanding of gold-induced cytokine responses, paving the way for further advancements in this critical area of study.