The cells that make both IL-17 and IFN-γ actually went down after stress — meaning the IL-17 causing damage probably came from cells that were already making it, not new ones being created.
Scientific Claim
In apolipoprotein E-knockout mice, the proportion of IL-17high+IFN-γ+ double-positive CD4+ T cells is significantly reduced in the treatment group compared to controls at both 6 and 14 weeks, suggesting that IL-17 release may occur from pre-existing Th17 cells rather than new double-positive cell generation.
Original Statement
“In addition, the proportion of IL-17high+IFN-γ+ double-positive CD4+ T cells was also significantly lower in the treatment group than in the control groups at both 6 and 14 weeks (6 weeks: 0.07%±0.04% vs 0.13%±0.02%, P<0.05 and 14 weeks: 0.21%±0.06% vs 0.57%±0.04%, P<0.01).”
Evidence Quality Assessment
Claim Status
appropriately stated
Study Design Support
Design supports claim
Appropriate Language Strength
association
Can only show association/correlation
Assessment Explanation
The study presents a complex immunological observation with precise data and avoids overinterpretation. The association between reduced double-positive cells and IL-17 release is appropriately framed.
Evidence from Studies
Supporting (0)
Contradicting (1)
The study says IL-17 and Th17 cells are involved in plaque rupture, but it never looked at the specific type of immune cell the claim is about, so we can't tell if the claim is right or wrong.