The synthesis of IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1ra) by synovial fibroblasts is markedly increased by the cytokines TNF-alpha and IL-1

Cytokines of the IL-1 family: recognized targets in chronic inflammation underrated in organ transplantations

Interleukin 1 (IL-1) family is a group of cytokines with multiple local and systemic effects, which regulates both innate and adaptive immune responses. Generally, most IL-1 family cytokines express prevailing pro-inflammatory activities (IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-18, IL-33, IL-36 α, β, γ), whereas others are anti-inflammatory (IL-1Ra (IL-1 receptor antagonist), IL-36Ra, IL-38, IL-37). In addition to their immunomodulatory roles, some of them are also involved in the physiological modulation of homeostatic processes and directly affect mRNA transcription. IL-1 family cytokines bind to specific receptors composed of a ligand-binding chain and an accessory chain. The pro-inflammatory effects of IL-1 family cytokines are regulated on the level of transcription, enzymatic processing of precursors, release of soluble antagonists, and expression of decoy receptors. Members of the IL-1 family regulate the recruitment and activation of effector cells involved in innate and adaptive immunity, but they are also involved in the pathogenesis of chronic disorders, including inflammatory bowel disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and various autoimmune and autoinflammatory diseases. There are only limited data regarding the role of IL-1 cytokines in transplantation. In recent years, targeted therapeutics affecting IL-1 have been used in multiple clinical studies. In addition to the recombinant IL-1Ra, anakinra (highly effective in autoinflammatory diseases and tested for other chronic diseases), the monoclonal antibodies canakinumab, gevokizumab, and rilonacept (a long-acting IL-1 receptor fusion protein) provide further options to block IL-1 activity. Furthermore, new inhibitors of IL-18 (GSK 1070806, ABT-325, rIL-18BP (IL-18 binding protein)) and IL-33 (CNTO-7160) are presently under clinical studies and other molecules are being developed to target IL-1 family cytokines.

Release kinetics of tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-1 receptor antagonist in the equine whole blood

Background

Horses are much predisposed and susceptible to excessive and acute inflammatory responses that cause the recruitment and stimulation of polymorphnuclear granulocytes (PMN) together with peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) and the release of cytokines. The aim of the study is to develop easy, quick, cheap and reproducible methods for measuring tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra) in the equine whole blood cultures ex-vivo time- and concentration-dependently.

Results

Horse whole blood diluted to 10, 20 and 50 % was stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS), PCPwL (a combination of phytohemagglutinin E, concanavalin A and pokeweed mitogen) or equine recombinant TNF-α (erTNF-α). TNF-α and IL-1Ra were analyzed in culture supernatants, which were collected at different time points using specific enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). Both cytokines could be detected optimal in stimulated 20 % whole blood cultures. TNF-α and IL-1Ra releases were time-dependent but the kinetic was different between them. PCPwL-induced TNF-α and IL-1Ra release was enhanced continuously over 24–48 h, respectively. Similarly, LPS-stimulated TNF-α was at maximum at time points between 8–12 h and started to decrease thereafter, whereas IL-1Ra peaked later between 12–24 h and rather continued to accumulate over 48 h. The equine recombinant TNF-α could induce also the IL-1Ra release.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate that similar to PCPwL, LPS stimulated TNF-α and IL-1Ra production time-dependently in whole blood cultures, suggesting the suitability of whole blood cultures to assess the release of a variety of cytokines in health and diseases of horse.

Cellular sources and inducers of cytokines present in acute wound fluid

Acute wounds contain many biological active molecules, including several cytokines and growth factors. However, the cellular sources of each molecule, as well as the stimuli inducing them, are poorly characterized. We quantified the levels of 27 cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors in acute wound fluid in a luminex-based assay. The acute wound fluid contained particularly high levels of IL-6 and IL-8, as well as elevated levels of MCP-1, IL-1RA, PDGF, IP-10, IFN-γ, and TNF-α. Surprisingly, the amounts of IL-1β and IL-10 were relatively low. To characterize the cellular sources of these molecules, we analyzed supernatants from monocytes, neutrophils, keratinocytes, fibroblasts, and endothelial cells stimulated with pro- and anti inflammatory cytokines, and different Toll-like receptor (TLR) ligands. The different cell types showed overlapping but distinct patterns of production of signal molecules, as well as sensitivity to ligands. Among pro-inflammatory cytokines, IL-1β was the most potent inducer of signal molecule production. Furthermore, keratinocytes and endothelial cells were in particular responsive to the Toll-like receptor-3 ligand poly I:C. New interactions between cytokines and growth factors were revealed, which may have important roles in wound healing, including IL-1β-induced IFN-γ and IL-10-induced VEGF.

Rosiglitazone induces interleukin-1 receptor antagonist in interleukin-1beta-stimulated rat synovial fibroblasts via a peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor beta/delta-dependent mechanism

OBJECTIVE

To study the potency of 2 peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARgamma) agonists, 15-deoxy-Delta(12,14)-prostaglandin J(2) (15-deoxy-PGJ(2)) and rosiglitazone, to modulate the expression of interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra) in rat synovial fibroblasts.

METHODS

Levels of messenger RNA for IL-1Ra and PPAR isotypes (alpha, beta/delta, gamma) were assessed by real-time polymerase chain reaction in rat synovial fibroblasts exposed to 10 ng/ml of IL-1beta. PPAR levels were assessed by Western blotting and secreted IL-1Ra levels by immunoassay. The potency of PPARgamma agonists and the PPARbeta/delta agonist GW-501516 on IL-1Ra levels was tested in the range of 1-10 microM and at 100 pM, respectively. The contribution of PPARgamma to the effects of rosiglitazone on IL-1Ra secretion was examined either by its overexpression or by inhibition using wild-type or dominant-negative constructs and the antagonist GW-9662 (10 microM), respectively. The dominant-negative strategy was also performed to investigate the possible contribution of PPARbeta/delta and NF-kappaB activation.

RESULTS

IL-1beta-induced IL-1Ra production was increased by 10 microM rosiglitazone but was reduced dose-dependently by 15-deoxy-PGJ(2). Both agonists lowered IL-1beta secretion, but rosiglitazone alone reduced the imbalance of IL-1beta/IL-1Ra toward basal levels. Enhancement of IL-1beta-induced IL-1Ra production by rosiglitazone was not affected by PPARgamma overexpression or by its inhibition with dominant-negative PPARgamma or GW-9662. Inhibition of NF-kappaB was also ineffective against rosiglitazone but abolished the stimulating effect of IL-1beta on IL-1Ra. All PPAR isotypes were expressed constitutively in rat synoviocytes, but PPARgamma decreased dramatically upon IL-1beta exposure, whereas PPARbeta/delta remained stable. Dominant-negative PPARbeta/delta abolished the enhancement of IL-1Ra by rosiglitazone, whereas GW-501516 reproduced the effect of rosiglitazone on IL-1Ra secretion.

CONCLUSION

Rosiglitazone stimulates IL-1Ra production by a PPARbeta/delta mechanism in activated rat synovial fibroblasts, further contributing to its potential antiarthritic properties and opening new perspectives for the modulation of inflammatory genes by specific PPAR agonists in articular cells.

Cytokine activity contributes to induction of inflammatory cytokine mRNAs in spinal cord following contusion

Injury of the spinal cord leads to an inflammatory tissue response, probably mediated in part by cytokines. Because a common therapy for acute spinal cord injury is the use of an antiinflammatory synthetic glucocorticoid (methylprednisolone), we sought to determine mechanisms contributing to inflammation shortly after acute injury. Cytokine mRNAs [interleukin (IL)-1alpha, IL-1beta, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, and IL-6] were increased during the first 2 hr following weight-drop compression injury by RNase protection assay, prior to the reported appearance of circulating lymphocytes. This immediate pattern of cytokine mRNA induction could be replicated in cultured, explanted spinal cord slices but not in whole blood of injured animals, which is consistent with a tissue source of cytokine mRNAs. Western blotting detected IL-1beta-like immunoreactivity released into culture medium following explantation and pro-IL-1beta-like immunoreactivity in freshly dissected spinal cord tissue. Pharmacologically blocking IL-1 and TNF-alpha receptors significantly reduced expression of IL-1alpha, IL-1beta, and TNF-alpha mRNAs. Finally, mice lacking both IL-1 and TNF-alpha receptors exhibited diminished induction of TNF-alpha, IL-6, and IL-1ra mRNAs following injury. Therefore, we conclude that contusion injury induces an immediate release of cytokines, which then contributes to the induction of cytokine mRNAs.

The Novartis-ILAR Rheumatology Prize 2001 Osteoarthritis: from molecule to man

During our careers, we have developed new and innovative concepts pertaining to the pathophysiology of osteoarthritis which have assisted in the development of new therapeutic approaches. Moreover, our laboratory has long sought to develop protective agents for osteoarthritic structural joint tissues. The most significant concepts that have originated from our lab are briefly outlined in this commentary.

Synovial fluid cytokines and eicosanoids as markers of joint disease in horses

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the value of various synovial fluid cytokines and eicosanoids to diagnose joint disease or categories of joint disease.

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective acquisition of clinicopathologic data.

ANIMALS OR SAMPLE POPULATION

Client-owned or donated horses: 50 joints with no evidence of disease; 28 joints with acute disease; 32 joints with chronic disease; 9 joints with cartilage damage and no other signs of joint disease.

METHODS

Concentrations of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta), interleukin-6 (IL-6), prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)), thromboxane B(2) (TXB(2)), prostaglandin F1-alpha (PGF(1)-alpha), and leukotriene B(4) (LTB(4)), were measured in equine synovial fluid by immunoassay and categorized according to duration and degree of joint disease. Any test value for a given category that was different from normal was further analyzed for sensitivity (S), specificity (Sp), and operating point (most valid test cutoff value). Likelihood ratios and predictive values were calculated at the operating point. Mediator concentrations were correlated to synovial fluid white blood cell count. Tests were reported as poor, fair, good, or excellent based on predictive values of <.25,.25-.5,.5-.75, or >.75, respectively.

RESULTS

TNF synovial fluid concentration as a predictor of joint disease was good, and the value of TNF (maximum S and Sp) indicating joint disease was >36 pg/mL. IL-1beta as a predictor of joint disease was good, and the value of IL-1beta indicating joint disease was >4.5 pg/mL. IL-6 concentration was an excellent predictor of joint disease. Any IL-6 in synovial fluid indicated joint disease and correlated highly with synovial fluid white blood cell count (P <.0001). PGE(2) was a good-excellent predictor of disease (positive predictive value [PPV] = 0.75), and the concentration indicating joint disease was >22.5 pg/mL. The diagnostic PGF(1)-alpha concentration indicating severe chronic joint disease was identified to be >16.5 pg/mL with very high sensitivity (S = 1) and specificity (Sp =.89). PGF(1)-alpha concentrations > 9.5 pg/mL had a good PPV (.69) and NPV (.6) for any joint disease. TBX(2) concentrations below 31.5 pg/mL (S =.57; Sp =.61) were a very good predictor of joint disease (PPV =.72). LTB(4) concentration appeared to be greater in severe acute joint disease than normal joints; this was not significant (P =.15) and correlated highly with synovial fluid white blood cell count (P =.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

The ability of a single value from a joint in an adult horse predicting the presence of joint disease was often good (.5-.75), and was excellent (> or =.75) for IL-6 and PGE(2). TNF-alpha and IL-1beta were no more effective than white blood cell count in screening for joint disease. IL-6 was the most sensitive and specific for joint disease and could be an excellent screening test for the presence of joint disease when lameness is difficult to identify or is intermittent. PGE(2) would be a functional screening test for the presence of any joint disease and offers a differentiating feature because values were not influenced by white blood cell count. PGF(1)-alpha values > 16.5 pg/mL identified chronic severe joint disease and may be clinically useful when there are minimal radiographic changes but substantial articular cartilage degradation.

Kainic acid induced expression of interleukin-1 receptor antagonist mRNA in the rat brain

The endogenous interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1ra), a protein with partial homology with the proinflammatory cytokine interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta), prevents binding of IL-1beta to the signalling receptor. Exogenous IL-1ra has been shown to reduce the neuronal damage occurring after excitotoxic amino acid administration and ischemia. In the present study, in situ hybridization histochemistry was employed to investigate the regulation of endogenous IL-1ra mRNA expression in the rat brain after peripheral administration of kainic acid (10 mg/kg). IL-1ra mRNA expression was markedly induced in the hippocampus, thalamus, amygdala, piriform cortex, perirhinal cortex, entorhinal cortex, and to a lesser extent in the hypothalamus, and parietal and temporal cortex. The expression was first detected at 5 h after the kainic acid administration and it was markedly increased at 24 h. No signal was detected at 4 days after the injection. The majority of the cells expressing IL-1ra mRNA displayed the morphological characteristics of microglia. Expression of IL-1ra mRNA in neurons occurred mainly in the piriform and perirhinal cortex. The distribution pattern of IL-1ra mRNA expressing microglia-like cells was similar to that of cells labelled with ED1, a marker for activated microglia. The induction of IL-1ra mRNA expression may represent an endogenous response to balance IL-1 receptor mediated activity in the brain following kainic acid administration, conceivably to elicit neuroprotective and/or antiinflammatory effects.

Interleukin-1 beta enhances interleukin-1 receptor antagonist content in human somatotroph adenoma cell cultures

In addition to the well-known modulation of immune and inflammatory responses, the interleukin-1 (IL-1) system has been shown to be involved in the regulation of anterior pituitary hormone secretion and growth. We previously demonstrated that IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1ra) is expressed in human pituitary adenomas cultured in vitro. In the present study, we investigated the regulation of IL-1ra protein by IL-1 beta (1-100 U/mL) in human somatotroph adenomas (n = 9) cultured for 12-48 h. IL-1 beta significantly enhanced the concentration of IL-1ra dose dependently in the somatotroph adenoma cell lysates, whereas IL-1ra concentrations remained unchanged in the culture supernatants. Furthermore, basal IL-1ra concentrations were significantly higher in the cell lysates compared with the corresponding culture supernatants. The regulation of IL-1ra in somatotroph adenoma cells is different from human cultured monocytes, in which IL-1 beta significantly stimulated IL-1ra secretion into the culture supernatants, and no change of intracellular IL-1ra content was observed. Incubation of the somatotroph adenoma cells with 100 U/mL IL-1 beta did not result in a change of GH concentrations in the culture supernatants. Enhancement of intracellular IL-1ra protein by IL-1 beta may represent a mechanism intrinsic to somatotroph adenoma cells to counterregulate the response to IL-1 beta on hormone secretion or cellular growth.

Interleukin-1 alpha (IL-1 alpha), IL-1 beta, IL-1 receptor type I, IL-1 receptor antagonist, and TGF-beta 1 mRNAs in pediatric astrocytomas, ependymomas, and primitive neuroectodermal tumors

Interleukin-1 alpha (IL-1 alpha), IL-1 beta, interleukin-1 receptor type I (IL-1RI, signaling receptor), and IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra, endogenous inhibitor) are pivotal components of the IL-1 system. IL-1 and other cytokines induced by IL-1, such as TGF-beta 1, may participate in the growth of various tumor cells. In children, primary nervous system tumors represent the most common solid malignancy. We investigated the levels of IL-1 alpha, IL-1 beta, IL-1RI, IL-1Ra, and TGF-beta 1 mRNAs in pediatric astrocytomas (n = 19), ependymomas (n = 13), and primitive neuroectodermal tumors (n = 22) using sensitive and specific RNase protection assays. The data show a significant distinct cytokine mRNA profile among brain tumor types. Pilocytic, nonpilocytic, and anaplastic astrocytomas have significant increased levels of IL-1 beta, IL-1RI, and TGF-beta 1 mRNAs, but low levels of IL-1Ra mRNA; this may have implications for an IL-1 beta feedback system and IL-1 beta<-->TGF-beta 1 interactions in astrocytomas. Ependymomas show increased levels of IL-1 alpha and IL-1 beta mRNAs associated with low levels of IL-1Ra mRNA; primitive neuroectodermal tumors do not exhibit increased levels of any cytokine component examined. The data also suggest that a dysregulation of the balance between stimulatory and inhibitory cytokines may be involved in the growth and development of brain tumors via autocrine/paracrine mechanisms.

Interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta)-induced modulation of the hypothalamic IL-1beta system, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and transforming growth factor-beta1 mRNAs in obese (fa/fa) and lean (Fa/Fa) Zucker rats: implications to IL-1beta feedback systems and cytokine-cytokine interactions

Interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta) induces anorexia, fever, sleep changes, and neuroendocrine alterations when administered into the brain. Here, we investigated the regulation of the IL-1beta system (ligand, receptors, receptor accessory protein, and receptor antagonist), tumor necrosis factor-alpoha (TNF-alpha), transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta1, and TGF-alpha mRNAs in the hypothalamus of obese (fa/fa) and lean (Fa/Fa) Zucker rats in response to the intracerebroventricular microinfusion of IL-1beta (8.0 ng/24 hr for 72 hr, a dose that yields estimated pathophysiological concentrations in the cerebrospinal fluid). IL-1beta increased IL-1beta, IL-1 receptor types I and II (IL-1RI and IL-1RII), IL-1 receptor accessory protein soluble form (IL-1R AcP II), IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra), TNF-alpha, and TGF-beta1 mRNAs in the hypothalamus from obese and lean rats. IL-1beta-induced IL-1beta system and ligand (IL-1beta, TNF-alpha, and TGF-beta1) mRNA profiles were highly intercorrelated in the same samples. Levels of membrane-bound IL-1R AcP and TGF-alpha mRNAs did not change. Heat-inactivated IL-1beta had no effect. The data suggest 1) the operation of an IL-1beta feedback system (IL-1beta/IL-1RI/IL-1R Acp II/IL-1RII/IL-1Ra) and 2) potential cytokine-cytokine interactions with positive (IL-1beta <--> TNF-alpha) and negative (TGF-beta1 --> IL-1beta/TNF-alpha) feedback. Dysregulation of the IL-1beta feedback system and the TGF-beta1/IL-1beta-TNF-alpha balance may have implications for neurological disorders associated with high levels of IL-1beta in the brain.

Endogenous interleukin-1 receptor antagonist is neuroprotective

Interleukin-1 (IL-1) has been implicated in chronic and acute cerebral neuropathologies. IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1ra), a naturally occurring protein that binds to IL-1 receptors without inducing signal transduction, blocks several actions of IL-1. IL-1ra acts at the local level and it also circulates in the bloodstream. We now report evidence for a biological function of IL-1ra in the brain as an endogenous neuroprotective molecule. Cerebral expression of IL-1ra mRNA is induced rapidly by focal cerebral ischemia in rats, and inhibition of the action of IL-1ra, by passive immuno-neutralization, markedly enhances ischemic damage. To our knowledge this is the first report of an action of endogenous IL-1ra in the brain. Control of IL-1ra expression or action may therefore provide a useful therapeutic strategy to limit acute neurodegeneration.

HIV-1 gp120 modulates hypothalamic cytokine mRNAs in vivo: implications to cytokine feedback systems

HIV-1-derived envelope glycoprotein 120 (gp120) may play an important role in HIV-1 neuropathology. Gp120 may act through mediators including proinflammatory cytokines. Here, we investigated the regulation of the IL-1 beta system [IL-1 beta, IL-1 receptor type I (IL-1RI), IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra), IL-1 receptor accessory proteins (IL-1R AcP I and II)], TNF-alpha, TGF-alpha, and TGF-beta 1 mRNAs in the hypothalamus of Wistar rats in response to the chronic intracerebroventricular (ICV) microinfusion (via osmotic minipumps) of HIV-1 gp120 (100, 500, and 1000 ng/24 h for 72 h). Gp120 increased IL-1 beta, IL-1Ra, TNF-alpha, and TGF-beta 1 mRNAs. Gp120-induced cytokine mRNA profiles were highly intercorrelated in the same samples. Levels of IL-1RI, IL-1R AcP I and II, and TGF-alpha did not change significantly, and levels of GAPDH mRNA were constant. The data suggest potential cytokine-cytokine interactions with positive (IL-1 beta<-->TNF-alpha) and negative (IL-1Ra-->IL-1 beta; TGF-beta 1-->IL-1 beta/TNF-alpha) feedback in gp120 action. A dysregulation of the balance between stimulatory and inhibitory cytokine mechanisms may participate in the initiation, propagation, and/or aggravation of HIV-1 neuropathology.

HIV-1 envelope glycoprotein 120 regulates brain IL-1beta system and TNF-alpha mRNAs in vivo

Human immunodeficiency virus type I (HIV-1)-derived envelope glycoprotein 120 (gp120) is proposed to play an important role in HIV-1 neuropathology. Gp120 may act through mediators including proinflammatory cytokines. Here, we investigated the regulation of the IL-1beta system [IL-1beta, IL-1 receptor type I (IL-1RI), IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra)], TNF-alpha and TGF-alpha mRNAs in the rat central nervous system (CNS) in response to the constant intracerebroventricular (ICV) microinfusion of HIV-1 gp120 for 72 h and 144 h. The results show that gp120: (1) increased IL-1beta and IL-1Ra mRNAs levels in the same samples from the cerebellum, hypothalamus and midbrain, with the largest increase in the hypothalamus; (2) induced profiles of IL-1beta mRNA and IL-1Ra mRNA that were highly intercorrelated; (3) increased the hypothalamic TNF-alpha mRNA levels; and (4) did not affect the IL-1RI mRNA and TGF-alpha mRNA levels in any brain region. A dysregulation in the IL-1beta/IL-1Ra CNS balance and a mutual induction and synergistic activity of IL-1beta and TNF-alpha could result in a deleterious amplification cycle of cellular activation and cytotoxicity with implications to HIV-1-associated encephalitis, encephalopathy, and neurological manifestations.

Molecular regulation of the brain interleukin-1 beta system in obese (fa/fa) and lean (Fa/Fa) Zucker rats

Interleukin-1 beta (IL-1 beta) induces anorexia when administered acutely or chronically into the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) at doses that yield estimated pathophysiological concentrations. Enhanced sensitivity to IL-1 beta-induced anorexia has been observed in animal models of obesity, including the obese (fa/fa) Zucker rat. Obesity is also associated with increased tumor necrosis factor-alpha mRNA expression in adipose tissue. This suggests that obese individuals may have dissimilar sensitivity to cytokine action and differential regulation of cytokine production. In this study, we investigated the regulation of the IL-1 beta system (IL-1 beta, IL-1 receptor type I (IL-1RI) and IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra)) in the central nervous system (CNS) in response to the chronic intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) microinfusion (via osmotic minipumps) of 8 ng IL-1 beta/24 h/72 h-a dose that yields estimated pathophysiological concentrations in the CSF. IL-1 beta, IL-1RI and IL-1Ra mRNAs were determined by sensitive RNase protection assays in brain target regions for IL-1 beta (cerebellum, parieto-frontal cortex, hippocampus, hypothalamus and midbrain). The results show that chronic i.c.v. microinfusion of IL-1 beta increased the IL-1 beta mRNA, IL-1R1 mRNA and IL-1Ra mRNA levels in the hypothalamus > cerebellum in both obese (fa/fa) and lean (Fa/Fa) Zucker rats. IL-1 beta mRNA levels also increased in the cortex, hippocampus and midbrain of obese (fa/fa) rats. The profiles of IL-1 beta mRNA, IL-1RI mRNA and IL-1Ra mRNA in the same hypothalamic samples obtained from obese or lean rats were highly intercorrelated. However, no significant differences in the level of IL-1 beta system mRNAs induction were observed in any brain region between obese and lean rats. On the other hand, levels of rat glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase mRNA were fairly constant, and heat-inactivated IL-1 beta (8 ng/24 h/72 h) had no effect on IL-1 beta, IL-1RI and IL-1Ra mRNAs levels in any brain region. The data suggest: (1) the operation of an IL-1 beta feedback system (IL-1 beta/IL-1Ra/IL-1RI) in brain regions; (2) that enhanced sensitivity of obese rats to IL-1 beta-induced anorexia is not dependent on changes in the brain IL-1 beta system at the mRNA level; and (3) that the present novel approach can be used to investigate the molecular basis of cytokine action in the CNS.

An approach to study molecular mechanisms involved in cytokine-induced anorexia

Cytokines are released during pathophysiological processes. Cytokines (e.g., interleukin-1 beta or IL-1 beta) induce neurological manifestations including anorexia. Here, we show an integrative approach to investigate the cellular and molecular basis of cytokine-induced anorexia. In this approach: (1) the chronic intracerebroventricular (icv) microinfusion (via osmotic minipumps) of cytokines, at doses that will yield estimated pathophysiological concentrations reported in the cerebrospinal fluid, is used. (2) General and computerized behavioral monitoring characterizes the microstructure of behavioral modifications induced by a cytokine, and the time course for cytokine action. (3) Brain regions and subregions (nuclei/areas) from animals exhibiting significant anorexia in response to cytokine(s) are dissected, and RNA and protein are isolated. (4) The profile of cytokine subsystems (ligands, receptors, endogenous inhibitors; for example, IL-1 alpha and beta, IL-1 receptor types I and II, and IL-1 receptor antagonist) is characterized in the same brain samples with polymerase chain reaction, sensitive RNase protection assays and immunoblots. (5) The relationship between changes in cytokine subsystems at the molecular level and cytokine-induced anorexia within an animal is determined, and the general profile is analyzed with statistical methods. This approach is also pertinent to study neurotransmitter and neuropeptide profiles, and cytokine-cytokine, cytokine-neuropeptide and cytokine-neurotransmitter interactions in vivo. The results show that this integrative and novel strategy can be used to study the molecular basis of anorexia and other neurological manifestations (e.g., fever, sleep changes) induced by cytokines.

Regulation of brain interleukin-1 beta (IL-1 beta) system mRNAs in response to pathophysiological concentrations of IL-1 beta in the cerebrospinal fluid

Interleukin-1 beta (IL-1 beta) is released during pathophysiological processes. IL-1 beta induces neurological manifestations when administered into the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) at pathophysiological concentrations detected during central nervous system (CNS) infections and other neurological disorders. In the present study, we investigated the regulation of the IL-1 beta system in the CNS in response to the chronic intracerebroventricular (icv) microinfusion of IL-1 beta at estimated pathophysiological concentrations in the CSF. IL-1 receptor type I (IL-1RI), IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra), and IL-1 beta mRNAs were determined by sensitive RNase protection assays in brain target regions for IL-1 beta (cerebellum, parieto-frontal cortex, hippocampus, and midbrain). The results show that chronic icy microinfusion of IL-1 beta induced significant anorexia, increased the cerebellar IL-1RI mRNA content, increased IL-1Ra and IL-1 beta mRNAs levels in the cerebellum > midbrain > cortex > hippocampus, and induced profiles of IL-1RI mRNA, IL-1Ra mRNA, and IL-1 beta mRNA that were highly intercorrelated. On the other hand, levels of rat glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase mRNA and 18S rRNA were fairly constant, and heat-inactivated IL-1 beta had no effect on food intake or on IL-1RI, IL-1Ra, and IL-1 beta mRNAs levels in any brain region. The data suggest the operation of an IL-1 beta feedback system (IL-1 beta/ IL-1Ra/IL-1RI) in brain regions. Dysregulation of the CNS IL-1 beta feedback system may have pathophysiological significance. This may be reflected, for example, in the pathogenicity and severity of neurological diseases, such as CNS infections.

Role of fibroblasts in the regulation of proinflammatory interleukin IL-1, IL-6 and IL-8 levels induced by keratinocyte-derived IL-1

In the epidermis, the keratinocytes are the first cells to be encountered by external stimuli and they are able to promote the inflammatory response by increased production and release of various cytokines. In their turn, these cytokines may directly affect the production of proinflammatory cytokines in human dermal fibroblasts. In addition, in both epithelial and mesenchymal cells cytokine production may be modulated by their mutual interaction, and thereby regulate the inflammatory response. The present study aimed to examine the role of fibroblasts in the regulation of proinflammatory IL-1, IL-6 and IL-8 levels induced by keratinocyte-derived IL-1. The data show that in fibroblasts exposed to conditioned media derived from cultures of normal human keratinocytes or squamous carcinoma cells (SCC-4), both the IL-8 and IL-6 mRNA expression as well as protein production were elevated. In addition, it was shown that these effects were induced by IL-1 alpha. The IL-1 alpha-induced increase in IL-8 and IL-6 production, both on the protein level as well as on the mRNA level, were concentration dependent and occurred almost simultaneously. While the induction of IL-6 and IL-8 occurred simultaneously, the IL-6 mRNA remained elevated for longer. In contrast to increased IL-6 and IL-8 production the IL-1 alpha levels markedly decreased upon culturing of fibroblasts in keratinocyte-derived conditioned medium. From internalization experiments it could be concluded that binding of IL-1 to IL-1 receptors, and its subsequent internalization and intracellular degradation is the most likely mechanism involved in the reduction of IL-1 levels by fibroblasts. Comparing the rate of IL-1 reduction in the presence of various cell types indicated that the rate of IL-1 reduction is directly related to the number of IL-1 receptors found on these cell types. In conclusion, these results indicate that the release of IL-1 alpha by activated keratinocytes may act as an inducer of IL-8 and IL-6 production in neighbouring fibroblasts. This may be an important pathway for the amplification of the inflammatory response. The amounts of both cytokines produced by fibroblasts were at least two to three orders of magnitude higher than those produced by keratinocytes, suggesting an important role of fibroblasts in the general inflammatory response. Furthermore, fibroblasts might be involved in turning off this inflammatory response by reducing IL-1 levels, most likely via IL-1 receptor-mediated uptake.

The increased synthesis of inducible nitric oxide inhibits IL-1ra synthesis by human articular chondrocytes: possible role in osteoarthritic cartilage degradation

The degradation of osteoarthritic (OA) cartilage is likely related to the synthesis and the release of catabolic factors by chondrocytes. Nitric oxide (NO) has recently been suggested as playing a role in cartilage degradation. Since NO production is largely dependent on stimulation by IL-1, its effects on factors regulating the IL-1 biological activity, such as IL-1ra, are of the utmost importance. This study examined and compared the level of NO production by normal and OA cartilage and chondrocytes, as well as studied the effect of IL-1-induced NO production on the synthesis and steady-state mRNA of interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1ra). The NO baseline production by normal cartilage explants was undetectable but inducible by rhIL-1 beta. OA cartilage spontaneously produced NO. About a two-fold increase in NO production was found in OA rhIL-1 beta-stimulated (0.5-100 units/ml) cartilage as compared with the similarly stimulated normal cartilage. on chondrocytes rhIL-1 beta-stimulation (0.5-100 units/ml) produced a dose-dependent enhancement of both NO production and IL-1ra synthesis. Treatment with 200 microM N(g)-monomethyl-L-arginine (L-NMA), a well known NO synthase inhibitor, induced over 70% inhibition of the NO production and a marked increased IL-1ra synthesis (average of 84%) and expression (mRNA level). Inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis by indomethacin had no effect on both the NO production or the IL-1ra level. In the present study, we demonstrated the capacity of OA cartilage to produce a larger amount of NO than the normal controls, both in spontaneous and IL-1-stimulated conditions. These data support the notion that, in vivo, OA chondrocytes are stimulated by factors, possibly IL-1, which in turn may induce the expression of NO synthase, thus the synthesis of NO itself. Importantly, our results showed that the elevation of of NO production may be an important factor in the pathophysiology of OA since it can reduce IL-1ra synthesis by chondrocytes. As such, an increased level of IL-1, associated with a decreased IL-1ra level, may be responsible for the stimulation of OA chondrocytes by this cytokine, leading to an enhancement of cartilage matrix degradation.

Interleukin-1 (IL-1)-induced resistance to bacterial infection: role of the type I IL-1 receptor

Pretreatment with a low dose of recombinant human interleukin-1 beta (IL-1) (3 to 30 micrograms/kg) 24 h before a lethal Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection prolongs survival in neutropenic mice. We investigated the role of the type I IL-1 receptor (IL-1RI) and IL-1RII in this IL-1-induced protection by using a specific IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1-Ra), which blocks effects mainly via IL-1RI. Pretreatment with IL-1Ra before IL-1 partially blocked the IL-1-induced enhanced survival, whereas pretreatment with a specific neutralizing monoclonal antibody to IL-1RI (35F5) eliminated the IL-1 induced protection. The nonapeptide fragment 163-171 of recombinant human IL-1 beta, which possesses the immunoadjuvant but not the inflammatory effect of the entire molecule via a non-receptor-mediated signal transduction process, did not reproduce the IL-1-induced protection. IL-1-induced protection was associated with reduced serum aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase concentrations in conjunction with ameliorated histopathology of the liver. These findings may be due to reduced cytokine production and cytokine sensitivity of target cells after infection. We conclude that the IL-1-induced nonspecific resistance to infection is mediated by cells bearing IL-1RI and is associated with a reduction of liver damage.

Interleukin-10 differentially regulates cytokine inhibitor and chemokine release from blood mononuclear cells and fibroblasts

In this study we have examined the effects of interleukin-10 (IL-10) on blood mononuclear cells (MNC) and on skin as well as on synovial fibroblasts. In unstimulated MNC, we found that IL-10 is a potent stimulator of interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1ra) and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) production and an inhibitor of IL-8 release. In cells exposed to IL-1 beta, it also moderately stimulated IL-1ra production and release of soluble tumor necrosis factor receptor p75 (sTNF-R p75) and inhibited IL-8 and MCP-1 production. In addition, we have evidence that the biological effects of IL-10 are not restricted to hematopoietic cells. IL-10 stimulated sTNF-R p55 dose-dependently and inhibited MCP-1 release from IL-1 beta-activated fibroblasts, whereas IL-8 production was not affected. Taken together, these findings identify novel biological actions of IL-10 on blood mononuclear and connective tissue cells which support its regulatory functions as a suppressor of inflammatory processes.

Type 1 interferon as an antiinflammatory agent: inhibition of lipopolysaccharide-induced interleukin-1 beta and induction of interleukin-1 receptor antagonist

The effect of two type 1 interferons (r-metIFN-con1 and IFN-alpha 2b) on the induction of specific cytokines and IL-1Ra in whole blood was examined. IFN-gamma was induced at low levels following treatment of diluted whole blood in some but not all subjects. IL-1Ra was induced by both r-metIFN-con1 and IFN-alpha 2b, but with 10- to 100-fold higher induction per ng IFN with r-metIFN-con1 than with IFN-alpha 2b. There was no detectable induction of TNF-alpha, IL-4, or IL-6 by either IFN. The effect of both IFN preparations was measured on LPS-induced inflammatory cytokines. Both IFN preparations inhibited the production of IL-1 beta when added to the diluted blood samples before LPS addition. However, neither IFN had any effect on IL-1 beta synthesis when added at the same time or after LPS induction. When added to total blood cells in the absence of LPS at low concentration (up to 100 pg/ml), IFN slightly stimulated IL-1 beta production, but at 1000 pg/ml or greater there was significant inhibition of IL-1 beta production. These results suggest that type I IFNs play a role in regulating the inflammatory response.

Production of interleukin-1 receptor antagonist by human glioblastoma cells in vitro and in vivo

We investigated the expression and production of the interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1ra) in three human glioblastoma cell lines (LN443, LN444, LN859). Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) demonstrated the expression of IL-1ra mRNA transcripts in the three cell lines. These three cell lines also expressed mRNA for IL-1 alpha, IL-1 beta, as well as IL-1 receptor type I and type II, suggesting the presence of an IL-1 autocrine loop in these cell lines. Northern blot analysis demonstrated that the IL-1ra mRNA expression increased with IL-1 beta or tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha but not with GM-CSF stimulation in both LN443 and LN444 cell lines. PMA stimulation increased the mRNA expression in LN444 but not in LN443 cells. Immunocytochemical staining showed IL-1ra immunoreactivity in these three cell lines. ELISA on culture supernatants demonstrated that the IL-1ra was secreted from the cell lines in agreement with the mRNA expression. RT-PCR with isoform-specific primers showed that both intracellular and secreted forms of IL-1ra were expressed by the three cell lines, with a predominance of the intracellular form. In vivo study with RT-PCR and Northern blot analysis demonstrated IL-1ra mRNA in six out of 12 human glioblastoma and two out of five anaplastic astrocytoma tissues, although the expression level was not high in some cases. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated the presence of IL-1ra within the cytoplasm of tumor cells in six out of 10 glioblastomas in vivo. These results suggest a potential role of IL-1ra in regulation of the IL-1 autocrine loop in glioblastomas.