Interleukin Variants Are Associated with the Development and Progression of IgA Nephropathy: A Candidate-Gene Association Study and Meta-Analysis

The interleukin-1 gene cluster encodes cytokines, which modulate mesangial cell proliferation and matrix expansion, both constituting central factors in the development and progression of immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN). A candidate-gene study was performed to examine the association of polymorphisms of the interleukin-1 gene cluster with the risk of progressive IgAN. To gain deeper insights into the involvement of interleukin genes in IgAN, a meta-analysis of genetic association studies (GAS) that examine the association between interleukin variants and IgAN was conducted. Association study: The case-control study consisted of 121 unrelated Caucasians with sporadic, histologically diagnosed IgAN and of 246 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Persistent proteinuria (>2 g/24 h) and/or impaired kidney function (serum creatinine > 1.5 mg/dL) defined progressive (n = 67) vs. non-progressive (n = 54) IgAN cases. Genotypes were assessed for two promoter-region single-nucleotide polymorphisms, C-899T (rs1800587) in IL1A and C-511T (rs16944) in IL1B, and for one penta-allelic variable-length tandem repeat polymorphism (VNTR 86 bp intron 2) in IL1RN. The association of these variants with the susceptibility of IgAN and the development of progressive IgAN (healthy status, IgAN, progressive IgAN) was tested using the generalized odds ratio (ORG) metric. Linkage disequilibrium and haplotype analysis were also performed. Meta-analysis: We included in the meta-analysis 15 studies investigating association between 14 interleukin variants harbored in eight different genes and IgAN. The ORG was used to evaluate the association between interleukin variants and IgAN using random effects models. The present case-control study revealed association of IL1B C-511T (rs16944) with the progression of IgAN (p = 0.041; ORG = 2.11 (1.09-4.07)). On haplotype analysis, significant results were derived for the haplotypes C-C-1 (p = 0.005; OR = 0.456 (0.261~0.797)) and C-T-2 (p = 0.003; OR = 4.208 (1.545-11.50)). Regarding association and meta-analysis results, variants in IL1B (rs1143627 and rs16944), IL1RN (rs928940, rs439154, and rs315951) and IL10 (rs1800871) were associated with IgAN based on either genotype or allele counts. Genetic variants and haplotypes in the IL1B, IL1RN, and IL10 genes might contribute to an increased risk for development and progression of IgAN.

Interleukin-1 family cytokines in liver cell death: a new therapeutic target for liver diseases

INTRODUCTION

Liver cell death represents a basic biological process regulating the progression of liver diseases via distinct mechanisms. Accumulating evidence has uncovered participation of interleukin (IL)-1 family cytokines in liver cell death. Upon activation of cell death induced by hepatotoxic stimuli, IL1 family cytokines released by hepatic dead cells stimulate recruitment of immune cells, which in turn influence inflammation and subsequent liver injury, thus highlighting their potential as therapeutic targets in liver diseases. Enhancing our comprehension of mechanisms underlying IL1 family cytokine signaling in cell death responses could pave the way for novel therapeutic interventions aimed at addressing liver cell death-related liver pathologies.

AREAS COVERED

This review summarizes the recent findings reported in preclinical and clinical studies on mechanisms of liver cell death, alongside participation of IL1 family members consisting of IL1α, ILβ, IL18, and IL33 in liver cell death and their significant implications in liver diseases.

EXPERT OPINION

Discovery of new and innovative therapeutic approaches for liver diseases will need close cooperation between fundamental and clinical scientists to better understand the multi-step processes behind IL1 family cytokines' contributions to liver cell death.

Immune infiltration in aggressive papillary craniopharyngioma: High infiltration but low action

Papillary craniopharyngiomas (PCPs) are biologically benign but clinically aggressive lesions hence affect the quality of life. The expression of inflammatory mediators and regulation of the immune microenvironment in PCPs have not been investigated much. In this study, for the first time, we assessed the immune cell infiltration and immune cell signatures in PCPs by analyzing the bulk-RNA sequencing data and immunohistochemical staining. Additionally, we performed qRT-PCR analysis to detect inflammatory mediators interleukin-1α (IL1A) and interleukin-6 (IL6) in different aggressive groups and then developed the IL1A and IL6 prediction models for defining the degree of hypothalamic invasion. Lastly, we defined differentially expressed genes related to invasiveness and implemented enrichment analysis to them. Our results indicated that PCPs are in a state of high immune infiltration but low action with abundant inflammatory cells. High infiltration of neutrophils may lead a low active immune microenvironment. Furthermore, the high expression level of IL1A and IL6 was positively correlated with the invasion of PCP tumors in the hypothalamus. These findings provide new pathological insights into the underlying mechanism of the immune microenvironment in PCP tumors. Moreover, IL1A and IL6 might serve as potential therapeutic targets for PCP tumors, especially to prevent their invasion into the hypothalamus.

Interleukin-1α Is a Central Regulator of Leukocyte-Endothelial Adhesion in Myocardial Infarction and in Chronic Kidney Disease

BACKGROUND

Cardiovascular diseases and chronic kidney disease (CKD) are highly prevalent, aggravate each other, and account for substantial mortality. Both conditions are characterized by activation of the innate immune system. The alarmin interleukin-1α (IL-1α) is expressed in a variety of cell types promoting (sterile) systemic inflammation. The aim of the present study was to examine the role of IL-1α in mediating inflammation in the setting of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and CKD.

METHODS

We assessed the expression of IL-1α on the surface of monocytes from patients with AMI and patients with CKD and determined its association with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease events during follow-up in an explorative clinical study. Furthermore, we assessed the inflammatory effects of IL-1α in several organ injury models in Il1a^-/- and Il1b^-/- mice and investigated the underlying mechanisms in vitro in monocytes and endothelial cells.

RESULTS

IL-1α is strongly expressed on the surface of monocytes from patients with AMI and CKD compared with healthy controls. Higher IL-1α surface expression on monocytes from patients with AMI and CKD was associated with a higher risk for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease events, which underlines the clinical relevance of IL-1α. In mice, IL-1α, but not IL-1β, mediates leukocyte-endothelial adhesion as determined by intravital microscopy. IL-1α promotes accumulation of macrophages and neutrophils in inflamed tissue in vivo. Furthermore, IL-1α on monocytes stimulates their homing at sites of vascular injury. A variety of stimuli such as free fatty acids or oxalate crystals induce IL-1α surface expression and release by monocytes, which then mediates their adhesion to the endothelium via IL-1 receptor-1. IL-1α also promotes expression of the VCAM-1 (vascular cell adhesion molecule-1) on endothelial cells, thereby fostering the adhesion of circulating leukocytes. IL-1α induces inflammatory injury after experimental AMI, and abrogation of IL-1α prevents the development of CKD in oxalate or adenine-fed mice.

CONCLUSIONS

IL-1α represents a key mediator of leukocyte-endothelial adhesion and inflammation in AMI and CKD. Inhibition of IL-1α may serve as a novel anti-inflammatory treatment strategy.

L-carnosine mitigates interleukin-1α-induced dry eye disease in rabbits via its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiapoptotic, and antifibrotic effects

OBJECTIVE

To elucidate the implications of L-carnosine on interleukin-1α (IL-1α)-induced inflammation of lacrimal glands (LGs).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty rabbits were divided equally into four groups: control group (G1), IL-1α (G2), L-carnosine (G3), and L-carnosine plus IL-1α (G4). Several clinical, histopathological, immunohistochemical, morphometric, and biochemical investigations were performed, followed by statistical analysis to diagnose the presence of dry eye disease (DED).

RESULTS

The LGs of G2 rabbits showed degeneration of the acinar cells, increased deposition of collagen fibers, and marked immunoexpression of FasL; elevated levels of interferon-γ, tumor necrosis factor-α, transforming growth factor-β1, and malondialdehyde; and decreased levels of glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, catalase, and reactive oxygen species compared with those of G1 rabbits. In contrast, administration of L-carnosine to G4 rabbits revealed marked improvement of all previously harmful changes in G2 rabbits, indicating the cytoprotective effects of L-carnosine against IL-1α-induced inflammation of LGs.

CONCLUSIONS

IL-1α induced inflammation of LGs and eye dryness via oxidative stress, proinflammatory, apoptotic, and profibrotic effects, whereas L-carnosine mitigated DED through antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiapoptotic, and antifibrotic effects on LGs. Therefore, this work demonstrates for the first time that L-carnosine may be used as adjuvant therapy for the preservation of visual integrity in patients with DED.HighlightsIL-1α induced dry eye disease through its oxidative stress, proinflammatory, apoptotic and profibrotic effects on the lacrimal glands of rabbit.L-carnosine has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiapoptotic and antifibrotic effects.L-carnosine mitigated IL-1α induced dry eye disease via elevating the levels of FasL, IFN-γ, TNF-α, TGFβ1 and MDA as well as reducing the levels of antioxidants (GPx, SOD, and catalase) and ROS in the lacrimal glands of rabbit.L-carnosine could be used as a novel adjuvant therapy for the treatment of dry eye disease.

Overexpression of Interleukin-1α Suppresses Liver Metastasis of Lymphoma: Implications for Antitumor Effects of CD8+ T-cells

Interleukin (IL)-1 plays a key role in carcinogenesis, tumor progression, and metastasis. Although IL-1 may enhance the expansion of CD8+ T-cells, the pathological contribution of IL-1-activated CD8+ T-cells to tumor metastasis remains unclear. This study used a liver metastasis model of the EL4 T-cell lymphoma cells transplanted into human IL (hIL)-1α conditional transgenic (hIL-1α cTg) mice. Overproduction of hIL-1α suppressed both macroscopic and histological liver metastasis of EL4 T-cell lymphoma. The hIL-1α-induced inflammatory state increased the number of CD8+ T-cells both within and around metastatic tumors. Moreover, larger numbers of CD8+ T-cells showed greater infiltration of liver blood vessels in hIL-1α cTg mice than in control wild-type mice. Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick-end labeling staining of liver tissue from hIL-1α cTg mice indicated increased apoptosis of cells in the tumor. Localization of apoptosis cells resembled that of CD8+ T-cells. In addition, cytotoxicity assay showed that CD8+ T-cell counts from tumor-bearing hIL-1α cTg mice correlated with cytotoxicity against EL4. In summary, IL-1α suppresses lymphoma metastasis, and IL-1α-activated CD8+ T-cells may play important roles in inhibiting both tumor metastasis and metastatic tumor growth.

IL-1α Processing, Signaling and Its Role in Cancer Progression

Interleukin-1α (IL-1α) is a major alarmin cytokine which triggers and boosts the inflammatory responses. Since its discovery in the 1940s, the structure and bioactivity of IL-1α has been extensively studied and emerged as a vital regulator in inflammation and hematopoiesis. IL-1α is translated as a pro-form with minor bioactivity. The pro-IL-1α can be cleaved by several proteases to generate the N terminal and C terminal form of IL-1α. The C terminal form of IL-1α (mature form) has several folds higher bioactivity compared with its pro-form. IL-1α is a unique cytokine which could localize in the cytosol, membrane, nucleus, as well as being secreted out of the cell. However, the processing mechanism and physiological significance of these differentially localized IL-1α are still largely unknown. Accumulating evidence suggests IL-1α is involved in cancer pathogenesis. The role of IL-1α in cancer development is controversial as it exerts both pro- and anti-tumor roles in different cancer types. Here, we review the recent development in the processing and signaling of IL-1α and summarize the functions of IL-1α in cancer development.

Acid-electrolyzed functional water-induces Interleukin-1α release from Intracellular Storage Sites in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma

The aim of this study was to examine the acid-electrolyzed functional water (FW)-mediated cytokine release in an oral squamous cell carcinoma-derived cell line (OSCC) following treatment with FW. FW is generated by the electrolysis of a sodium chloride solution and accelerate the burn wound healing. To elucidate the underlying mechanisms, the cytokine/chemokine secretion profile of HSC3 cells was examined using a cytokine array. FW treatment significantly induced interleukin (IL)-1α secretion, which was confirmed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Subsequently, the HSC3 cells were pre-treated with cycloheximide (CHX) for 1 h prior to FW stimulation to determine whether the augmented IL-1α secretion was due to enhanced protein synthesis. CHX pre-treatment did not affect IL-1α secretion suggesting that the secreted IL-1α might have been derived from intracellular storage sites. The amount of IL-1α in the cell lysate of the FW-treated HSC3 cells was significantly lower than that of the non-treated cells. Immunofluorescence staining using a polyclonal antibody against full-length IL-1α revealed a drastic reduction in IL-1α inside the FW- treated cells. IL-1α is synthesized in its precursor form (pIL-1α) and cleaved to produce pro-piece and mature IL-1α (ppIL-1α and mIL-1α) inside the cells. In the present study, only pIL-1α was detected within the HSC3 cells in its resting state. However, FW stimulation resulted in the release of the 33 kDa and two other smaller forms (about 19 kDa) of the protein. These results indicates that FW treatment induces IL-1α secretion, a typical alarmin, from the intracellular storage in OSCC cells.

3-O-Laurylglyceryl ascorbate improves the development of sensitive skin through the reduction of oxidative stress

Skin sensitivity is a serious problem for many people, and it can be induced by various factors such as UV irradiation, physical and mental stresses, air pollution, dry air and so on. Skin dryness triggered by UV and dry air is one of the most important causes inducing the development of sensitive skin, and it has been reported that oxidative stress contributes to skin dryness. In this study, we investigated whether treatment with 3-O-laurylglyceryl ascorbate (VC-3LG), which is an amphipathic ascorbic acid derivative, can suppress the development of sensitive skin. The results demonstrate that VC-3LG restores the expression levels of interleukin-1α, nerve growth factor and matrix metalloprotease-9 in the dry skin models of reconstructed human epidermal equivalents (RHEEs) and in H₂ O₂ -treated keratinocytes. In addition, VC-3LG suppresses the dendrite elongation of nerve cells induced in RHEEs by dry skin conditions and by H₂ O₂ treatment of keratinocytes. Therefore, we consider that treatment of the skin with VC-3LG is an effective approach to improve the development of sensitive skin.

Axl Deficiency Promotes the Neuroinvasion of Japanese Encephalitis Virus by Enhancing IL-1α Production from Pyroptotic Macrophages

Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) is a mosquito-borne flavivirus that causes Japanese encephalitis (JE), the most commonly diagnosed viral encephalitis worldwide. The fatality rate of JE is 20%, and nearly half of the surviving patients develop neuropsychiatric sequelae. Axl is a receptor tyrosine kinase that plays multiple roles in flaviviral infections. Currently, the involvement of Axl in JEV infection remains enigmatic. In this study, we demonstrate that Axl impedes the pathogenesis of severe JE in mice by maintaining blood-brain-barrier (BBB) integrity and restricting viral neuroinvasion. Furthermore, serum IL-1α is a key mediator of this process and is primarily released by JEV-infected pyroptotic macrophages to elicit BBB breakdown, while an IL-1α antagonist can effectively reduce the incidence of severe JE. Our work uncovers the protective role of Axl in antagonizing severe JE and shows that the use of an IL-1α antagonist may be a promising tactic to prevent severe JE.

Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) is a flavivirus that causes Japanese encephalitis (JE), which has an unclear pathogenesis. Despite vaccination, thousands of deaths attributed to JE are reported annually. In this study, we report that mice deficient for Axl, a receptor tyrosine kinase that plays multiple roles in flaviviral infection, displayed greater mortality upon JEV infection. The effect of Axl deficiency on JEV infection was mediated by markedly elevated serum interleukin-1α (IL-1α) levels, which devastated the blood-brain-barrier and promoted viral neuroinvasion within 24 h postinfection. Using an in situ infection model, we showed that dead macrophages were the primary source of observed increased serum IL-1α levels. Axl deficiency enhanced cell death and caused pyroptosis in 80% of JEV-infected macrophages by disrupting phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)-Akt signaling. Intriguingly, the primary effector released by pyroptotic macrophages in our model was IL-1α rather than IL-1β. Finally, we assessed the effect of an IL-1α antagonist and demonstrated that it effectively prevented the incidence of JE. Our results indicate that Axl plays a protective role in JEV infection, identify IL-1α released by pyroptotic macrophages as a crucial factor promoting JEV neuroinvasion, and suggest that an IL-1α antagonist may be a candidate for JE therapy.

IMPORTANCE Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) is a mosquito-borne flavivirus that causes Japanese encephalitis (JE), the most commonly diagnosed viral encephalitis worldwide. The fatality rate of JE is 20%, and nearly half of the surviving patients develop neuropsychiatric sequelae. Axl is a receptor tyrosine kinase that plays multiple roles in flaviviral infections. Currently, the involvement of Axl in JEV infection remains enigmatic. In this study, we demonstrate that Axl impedes the pathogenesis of severe JE in mice by maintaining blood-brain-barrier (BBB) integrity and restricting viral neuroinvasion. Furthermore, serum IL-1α is a key mediator of this process and is primarily released by JEV-infected pyroptotic macrophages to elicit BBB breakdown, while an IL-1α antagonist can effectively reduce the incidence of severe JE. Our work uncovers the protective role of Axl in antagonizing severe JE and shows that the use of an IL-1α antagonist may be a promising tactic to prevent severe JE.

Novel mechanistic targets of forkhead box Q1 transcription factor in human breast cancer cells

The transcription factor forkhead box Q1 (FoxQ1) is overexpressed in different solid tumors including breast cancer, but the mechanism underlying its oncogenic function is still not fully understood. In this study, we compared RNA-seq data from FoxQ1 overexpressing SUM159 cells with that of empty vector-transfected control cells to identify novel mechanistic targets of this transcription factor. Analysis of The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) data set revealed significantly higher expression of FoxQ1 in black breast cancer patients compared with white women with this disease. In contrast, expression of FoxQ1 was comparable in ductal and lobular carcinomas in the breast cancer TCGA data set. Complementing our published findings in basal-like subtype, immunohistochemistry revealed upregulation of FoxQ1 protein in luminal-type human breast cancer tissue microarrays when compared with normal mammary tissues. Many previously reported transcriptional targets of FoxQ1 (eg, E-cadherin, N-cadherin, fibronectin 1, etc) were verified from the RNA-seq analysis. FoxQ1 overexpression resulted in the downregulation of genes associated with cell cycle checkpoints, M phase, and cellular response to stress/external stimuli as evidenced from the Reactome pathway analysis. Consequently, FoxQ1 overexpression resulted in mitotic arrest in basal-like SUM159 and human mammary epithelial cell line, but not in luminal-type MCF-7 cells. Finally, we show for the first time that FoxQ1 is a direct transcriptional regulator of interleukin (IL)-1α, IL-8, and vascular endothelial growth factor in breast cancer cells as evidenced by chromatin immunoprecipitation assay. In conclusion, the present study reports novel mechanistic targets of FoxQ1 in human breast cancer cells.

Interleukin-1α and -1β assessment in the gingival crevicular fluid of periodontal patients with chronic hepatitis C

The study assessed whether the increased production of interleukin-1α (IL-1α) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β), as a result of chronic hepatic inflammation, could be the expression of the negative impact on periodontal disease. The study included chronic periodontitis patients who were systemically healthy, chronic periodontitis patients suffering from chronic hepatitis C, as well as control patients, being systemically and periodontally healthy. After periodontal examination and the assessment of certain periodontal parameters, gingival crevicular fluid was collected from all participating patients. By using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method, a quantitative assessment of IL-1α and IL-1β levels was possible. The immunologic results were correlated to the clinical periodontal data. The gingival fluid levels of cytokines were higher for periodontitis patients with chronic hepatitis C than for the systemically healthy periodontitis patients (1.8-fold higher for IL-1α and 2.1-fold higher for IL-1β). In addition, the gingival fluid cytokine levels were significantly higher for the periodontal patients (with/without chronic hepatitis C) than for the control group. Positive correlations were found between gingival fluid IL-1α and IL-1β levels and certain clinical periodontal parameters or the age of the viral hepatitis C diagnosis, in periodontitis patients with chronic hepatitis C. The chronic hepatic inflammation may have an important additional negative impact on the periodontal status, as both inflammatory reactions seem to be promoted by common pro-inflammatory cytokines.

Expression of S100A8 is induced by interleukin‑1α in TR146 epithelial cells through a mechanism involving CCAAT/enhancer binding protein β

Calprotectin in mucosal epidermal keratinocytes has an important role in fighting microbial infections. S100A8 belongs to the S100 protein family and is a subunit of calprotectin (heterodimer complex of S100A8/A9). Interleukin‑1α (IL‑1α) is one of the cytokines produced by oral keratinocytes. The primary aims of the present study were to investigate the effect of IL‑1α on the expression of S100A8 and its underlying molecular mechanism in oral epithelial cells. Determining the molecular mechanism of the induced expression of S100A8 by IL‑1α aims to improve current understanding of the roles of calprotectin during the infection of mucosal epithelial cells. The expression analysis indicated that IL‑1α significantly induced the expression of S100A8 in human TR146 epithelial cells at the mRNA and protein levels, respectively. The reporter assay demonstrated that the upregulatory effect of S100A8 induced by IL‑1α was dependent on the S100A8 promoter specific region (‑165/‑111). The results of electrophoresis mobility shift assay and chromatin immunoprecipitation assay also demonstrated that the CCAAT/enhancer binding protein β (C/EBPβ) binding site (‑113/‑109) in the S100A8 promoter region was involved into the upregulatory effect on the expression of S100A8 induced by IL‑1α. Taken together, these results suggested that the activation of the expression of S100A8 induced by IL‑1α in TR146 epithelial cells involves a mechanism by which the binding activity of C/EBPβ to the specific site (‑113/‑109) of the S100A8 promoter is increased.

IL-1α correlates with severity of hepatitis C virus-related liver diseases

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Immunoregulatory cytokines influence the persistence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) chronic infection and the extent of liver damage. Interleukin-1 (IL-1) plays an important role in the inflammatory process. Some studies have demonstrated that IL-1α production was impaired in patients with chronic infections of HCV, implying that IL-1α may play a role in viral clearance. The aim of this study was to evaluate the serum level of proinflammatory cytokine IL-1α in patients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC).

METHODS

This study was performed on 20 CHC patients with cirrhosis in (Group I), 20 CHC patients without cirrhosis in (Group II), 20 hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients with positive anti-HCV in (Group III), and 10 healthy subjects as a control group. Serum levels of IL-1α were measured by enzyme-linked immunoassay technique.

RESULTS

IL-1α had the highest mean concentration in the HCC group and then in the group of CHC with cirrhosis compared to the group of CHC without cirrhosis. Also, it was higher in all studied groups than in the control group (P<0.001). Statistical analysis showed that IL-1α was positively correlated with bilirubin (P≤0.001), alanine aminotransferase (P=0.006), aspartate aminotransferase (P=0.001), and viral load (P=0.001) but it was negatively correlated with albumin (P≤0.001) and Hb (P≤0.001), and was not significantly correlated with other parameters (age, international normalized ratio, urea, creatinine, white blood cells, and platelet count).

CONCLUSION

Serum level of IL-1α was elevated in patients with CHC and its related liver diseases (liver cirrhosis and HCC) and can be used as an important parameter of inflammatory activity and for fibrosis evaluation in patients with chronic liver disease.

Interleukin-1α Mediates Ozone-Induced Myeloid Differentiation Factor-88-Dependent Epithelial Tissue Injury and Inflammation

Air pollution associated with ozone exposure represents a major inducer of respiratory disease in man. In mice, a single ozone exposure causes lung injury with disruption of the respiratory barrier and inflammation. We investigated the role of interleukin-1 (IL-1)-associated cytokines upon a single ozone exposure (1 ppm for 1 h) using IL-1α-, IL-1β-, and IL-18-deficient mice or an anti-IL-1α neutralizing antibody underlying the rapid epithelial cell death. Here, we demonstrate the release of the alarmin IL-1α after ozone exposure and that the acute respiratory barrier injury and inflammation and airway hyperreactivity are IL-1α-dependent. IL-1α signaling via IL-1R1 depends on the adaptor protein myeloid differentiation factor-88 (MyD88). Importantly, epithelial cell signaling is critical, since deletion of MyD88 in lung type I alveolar epithelial cells reduced ozone-induced inflammation. In addition, intratracheal injection of recombinant rmIL-1α in MyD88^acid mice led to reduction of inflammation in comparison with wild type mice treated with rmIL-1α. Therefore, a major part of inflammation is mediated by IL-1α signaling in epithelial cells. In conclusion, the alarmin IL-1α released upon ozone-induced tissue damage and inflammation is mediated by MyD88 signaling in epithelial cells. Therefore, IL-1α may represent a therapeutic target to attenuate ozone-induced lung inflammation and hyperreactivity.

Functional polymorphism rs3783553 in the 3'-untranslated region of IL-1A increased the risk of ischemic stroke: A case-control study

Accumulating evidence indicates interleukin-1 (IL-1) is a critical mediator of inflammatory responses in ischemic stroke (IS). The aim of this study was to investigate whether rs3783553 in the 3'-untranslated region of IL-1A was associated with the risk of IS. In this hospital-based case-control study, we genotyped the rs3783553 using polymerase chain reaction in 316 patients with IS and 332 age, sex, and ethnicity-matched controls. Plasma level of IL-1α was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The relative luciferase activities were measured by the Dual Luciferase assay system. The presence of ins/ins genotype was associated with higher odds ratios (ORs) of IS compared with del/del genotype (ins/ins vs del/del: adjusted OR 1.77, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.06-2.98; recessive model: adjusted OR 1.69, 95% CI 1.06-2.70). The higher risk of IS was also observed in allele comparison (adjusted OR 1.29, 95% CI 1.00-1.65). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that age, hypertension, total cholesterol, triglyceride, low-density lipoprotein, and rs3783553ins/ins genotypes were independent risk factors for IS. Plasma level of IL-1α was higher among IS patients compared with controls (P = .03). Notably, IS patients with the TTCA/TTCA genotype had a higher level of IL-1α compared with those with the del/del genotype (P = .01). Luciferase reporter assay showed that the vector containing the TTCA del allele exhibited a reduced transcriptional activity in the presence of miR-122 and miR-378. These findings indicate that IL-1A rs3783553 ins/ins genotype may increase the susceptibility to IS, possibly by interrupting the binding site of miR-122 and miR-378.

Hypoxia/IL-1α axis promotes gastric cancer progression and drug resistance

OBJECTIVE

The microenvironment of tumors constitutes a unique niche that promotes cancer metastasis and resistance. Two remarkable characteristics of this microenvironment are hypoxia and inflammation. Interleukin-1α (IL-1α), an important inflammatory factor, is frequently upregulated in a variety of cancers. This study aimed to investigate the expression of IL-1α in gastric cancer (GC) and explore the relationship between IL-1α and hypoxia.

METHODS

Reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction was performed to characterize IL-1α expression in different GC cell lines under normoxia or hypoxia. IL-1α expression was characterized in relation to tumor stage and lymph node metastasis of GC and the survival of patients. The effect of IL-1α knockdown under normoxia or hypoxia on cell proliferation, migration and sensitivity to cisplatin was also evaluated. Additionally, hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) expression in KATO-III cells was either upregulated by ectopic HIF-1α expression or downregulated through shHIF-1α transfection, the effects of which on IL-1α expression was subsequently evaluated.

RESULTS

There was a positive correlation between IL-1α, which was upregulated during hypoxia, and tumor stage, lymph node metastasis and resistance to cisplatin in GC. IL-1α was regulated by HIF1α, and a change in HIF1α expression altered the tumor-promoting effect of IL-1α.

CONCLUSION

The IL-1α/hypoxia axis may be a valuable target for diagnosis and treatment of GC.

Protective effects of astaxanthin on skin deterioration

Astaxanthin is a carotenoid with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. To evaluate the anti-inflammatory effect of astaxanthin on skin deterioration, we confirmed its role in epidermal-dermal interactions in vitro. Astaxanthin treatment suppressed ultraviolet B (UVB)-induced inflammatory cytokine secretion in keratinocytes, and matrix metalloproteinase-1 secretion by fibroblasts cultured in UVB-irradiated keratinocyte medium. To verify these findings, we conducted a 16-week clinical study with 65 healthy female participants. Participants were orally administered either a 6 mg or 12 mg dose of astaxanthin or a placebo. Wrinkle parameters and skin moisture content significantly worsened in the placebo group after 16 weeks. However, significant changes did not occur in the astaxanthin groups. Interleukin-1α levels in the stratum corneum significantly increased in the placebo and low-dose groups but not in the high-dose group between weeks 0 and 16. This study was performed in Japan from August to December, when changing environmental factors, such as UV and dryness, exacerbate skin deterioration. In conclusion, our study suggests that long-term prophylactic astaxanthin supplementation may inhibit age-related skin deterioration and maintain skin conditions associated with environmentally induced damage via its anti-inflammatory effect. (UMIN Clinical Trials Registry ID: UMIN000018550)

Elevation of CD16+CD56+ NK-cells and down-regulation of serum interleukin-21 (IL-21) and IL-1α after splenectomy in relapsed hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis of unknown cause

OBJECTIVES

Encouraging progress has been made in application of splenectomy in the treatment of relapsed hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) of unknown cause. The aim was to determine the roles of lymphocyte subpopulations and inflammatory cytokines in splenectomy.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed changes in lymphocyte subpopulations and levels of inflammatory cytokines at different time-points before and after splenectomy in the patients with relapsed HLH of unknown cause, as well as the correlations between these changes and the disease prognosis.

RESULTS

During the period from June 2006 to June 2016, we enrolled 107 patients with relapsed HLH of unknown cause, of whom 29 were treated with splenectomy. Among the 29 patients, 7 cases were non-Hodgkin lymphomas based on spleen pathology, 1 case withdrew and the remaining 21 non-lymphoma cases were available for analysis. Results showed a significant increase in both percentage of CD16⁺CD56⁺ NK cells (P = 0.003) and NK cell activity (P = 0.028) at 24 wk after splenectomy compared to their baseline pre-surgery levels. We also examined seven patients for the changes in cytokine levels before and after splenectomy and found that IL-21 and IL-1α decreased at 4 wk after splenectomy (P < 0.05). Seven non-lymphoma patients determined as no response to treatment (NR) prior to splenectomy had significantly longer survival (P = 0.001) compared to the 24 patients with relapsed HLH of unknown cause who were also determined as NR but not treated by splenectomy.

DISCUSSION

Splenectomy can improve clinical symptoms and survival of patients with relapsed HLH of unknown cause. The mechanism is likely related to the changes in percent NK cells and cytokines (IL-21 and IL-1α) after surgery.

Pharmacokinetics and Tolerability of a Dual Variable Domain Immunoglobulin ABT-981 Against IL-1α and IL-1β in Healthy Subjects and Patients With Osteoarthritis of the Knee

The interleukin (IL)-1 family of proinflammatory cytokines are thought to play a significant role in the structural progression of osteoarthritis and its associated symptoms. IL-1α and IL-1β are 2 distinct cytokines found in the cartilage, synovial membrane, and synovial fluid of patients with osteoarthritis. The aim of these studies was to evaluate the pharmacokinetics of ABT-981, a dual variable domain immunoglobulin (DVD-Ig) capable of simultaneously binding IL-1α and IL-1β, in healthy subjects and patients with osteoarthritis of the knee. Fifty-six healthy adult subjects were randomized to receive single doses of ABT-981 intravenously (0.3, 1, 3, or 10 mg/kg), subcutaneously (0.3, 1, 3 mg/kg), or matching placebo in a 3:1 ratio. Thirty-six patients with osteoarthritis of the knee were randomized to receive 4 subcutaneous ABT-981 doses of 0.3, 1, or 3 mg/kg administered every 2 weeks, 3 subcutaneous doses of ABT-981 3 mg/kg every 4 weeks, or matching placebo in a 7:2 active:placebo ratio. ABT-981 behaved similarly to conventional monoclonal antibodies following single or multiple doses with mean maximum serum concentrations 2 to 9 days after subcutaneous doses, mean terminal half-lives of 10 to 14 days, and an absolute subcutaneous bioavailability of 46%. Exposure of ABT-981 was approximately linear following single or multiple doses every 2 weeks with monoexponential decline of terminal-phase concentrations. The most common adverse events associated with ABT-981 were diarrhea and headache in healthy subjects and injection site erythema in subjects with osteoarthritis of the knee. Decreased absolute neutrophil counts were observed in response to ABT-981 administration.

Association of Interleukin-1 Gene Cluster and Interleukin-1 Receptor Polymorphisms With Febrile Seizures

Interleukin-1 (IL-1) plays a key role in inflammation, has an effect on a wide variety of cells, and often leads to tissue destruction. While the ratio between IL-1 and IL-1Ra could influence the development of different diseases of the central nervous system, its gene polymorphisms were investigated in a group of patients with febrile seizures. Ninety patients with febrile seizures were enrolled and compared with 140 controls. The allele and genotype frequency of single nucleotide polymorphisms within the IL-1α, β, IL-1 R and IL-1Ra gene were determined. The frequency of the IL-1Ra/C allele at position Mspa-I 11100 was decreased significantly (P= .002) and the IL-1Ra/T frequency was significantly increased in patients (P= .002). In addition, the CT genotype frequency at the same position was significantly overrepresented in controls compared to patients (P= .001). Certain alleles and genotypes in the IL-1 gene were overrepresented in patients with febrile seizures, which possibly could predispose individuals to this disease.

Immunoexpression of tumour necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1α and interleukin-10 on odontogenic cysts and tumours

AIM

To analyse the immunoreactivity of IL-1α, TNF-α and IL-10 in odontogenic cysts and tumours and to investigate possible associations with established biological behaviours of these different lesions.

METHODOLOGY

Immunohistochemical expression of anti-IL-1α, anti-TNF-α and anti-IL-10 antibodies was assessed on epithelium and mesenchyme of 20 radicular cysts (RCs), 20 residual cysts (RECs), 20 dentigerous cysts (DCs), 18 solid ameloblastomas (SAs), 20 keratocystic odontogenic tumours (KCOTs) and 15 dental follicles (DFs). Comparative analysis of data was performed using the nonparametric Wilcoxon signed-rank test and Kruskal-Wallis's test.

RESULTS

Significantly greater expression of IL-1α in the epithelium was noted in RC, KCOT and SA (P = 0.01), whilst IL-10 and TNF-α was in the epithelium of RC, DC and KCOT (P < 0.01). In the mesenchyme, significantly greater immunopositivity was observed for IL-1α, IL-10 and TNF-α in KCOT, DC and RC (P < 0.01). In epithelial and mesenchymal tissues, there were a significant number of cases of RC and DC with IL-1α < IL-10 ratio (P < 0.01), whilst SA and KCOT showed IL-1α > IL-10 (P < 0.01). There was a significantly greater percentage of DF, DC and KCOT with TNF-α > IL10 ratio (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

These results suggest involvement of the proteins in the pathogenesis of odontogenic cysts and tumours, with emphasis on the highest immunoreactivity of osteolysis stimulating factors in tumours with aggressive biological behaviour, such as SA and KCOT.

Association of Alzheimer's Disease With APOE and IL-1α Gene Polymorphisms

Apolipoprotein E (ApoE) gene polymorphisms are thought to be the most important genetic risk factor in the pathogenesis of late onset and sporadic Alzheimer's disease (AD). Moreover, interleukin-1α (IL-1α) is found to be associated with the pathogenesis of AD. In this research, ∊2, ∊3, and ∊4 polymorphisms of ApoE gene and C889T polymorphism of IL-1α gene were genotyped in patients with AD and controls. Genotyping was performed by real-time polymerase chain reaction. ∊3/∊3 and ∊3/∊4 genotype frequencies were significantly higher in control and case groups, respectively. While ∊3 allele frequencies were significantly higher in the control group, ∊2 and ∊4 allele frequencies were significantly higher among the cases with AD. No difference was found between the groups according to C889T polymorphism of IL-1α. In conclusion, we demonstrated that there was a strong association between ApoE ∊4 allele and AD, while there was no relation with IL-1α C889T polymorphisms for this study.

Effect of cadmium on the expression levels of interleukin-1α and interleukin-10 cytokines in human lung cells

Cadmium is an environmentally hazardous metal, which causes toxicity in humans. Inhalation of cigarette smoke and industrial fumes containing cadmium are sources of cadmium exposure. It is responsible for the malfunction of various organs, leading to disease particularly in the lungs, liver and kidneys. In the present study, the effect of cadmium chloride (CdCl2) on cell viability, and the expression levels of interleukin (IL)‑1α and IL‑10 cytokines at various concentrations and incubation durations were assessed in MRC‑9 human normal lung and A549 human lung cancer cells to elucidate the mechanism of cadmium toxicity. Cell viability was measured using a crystal violet dye binding assay. The expression levels of the cytokines were measured by cytokine specific enzyme‑linked immunosorbent assay kits. The viability assay results revealed higher sensitivity of the A549 lung cancer cells to CdCl2 compared with the normal MRC‑9 lung cells. In the normal MRC‑9 lung cells, higher expression levels of the cytokines were observed at the lowest CdCl2 concentration at a shorter exposure time compared with the lung cancer cells. Higher levels of the cytokines were observed in the A549 lung cancer cells at all other times and concentrations compared with the MRC‑9 cells, indicating higher levels of inflammation. The cytokine levels were reduced at higher CdCl2 concentrations and longer exposure durations, demonstrating the toxic effect of cadmium. The results indicated that CdCl2 affected the expression levels of the cytokines and led to cytotoxicity in human lung cells, and suggested that compounds which reduce inflammation may prevent cadmium toxicity.

Role of P311 in interleukin-1α-induced epithelial to myofibroblast transition in kidney tubular epithelial cells

Tubular epithelial-myofibroblast transition (TEMT) is an important process in renal tubulointerstitial fibrosis. Interleukin-1α (IL-1α) and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) have been demonstrated to be key inducers of TEMT. In mouse embryonic fibroblast cells (NIH3T3), P311 protein induces phenotypic changes that are consistent to myofibroblast transformation. In the present study, we investigated the role of P311 gene and protein as well as potential mechanisms underlying TEMT in normal rat kidney tubular epithelial cells (NRK52E). Morphological and molecular changes were determined in NRK52E cells that were treated with IL-1α and/or P311 antibodies. The results showed that the NRK52E cells triggered by IL-1α became fibroblast-like cells, exhibiting hypertrophy of elongated and fusiform-shaped cells. IL-1α induced a time-dependent increase in P311 gene expression in NRK52E cells, with a peak time at 4 days. The expression levels of P311 gene were positively correlated with α-SMA and TGF-β1 gene expression levels. Anti-P311 antibody inhibited P311 and α-SMA expression in the presence of IL-1α. In contrast, anti-P311 antibody increased the expression of TGF-β1 gene in cells cultured with IL-1α. Therefore, P311 gene, together with α-SMA and TGF-β1 genes, was induced in the process of TEMT. P311 protein triggered by interleukin-1α may promote TEMT through a TGF-β1-independent pathway.

The diagnostic role of cervico-vaginal fluid interleukins-1α in endometriosis: A case-control study

BACKGROUND

Endometriosis is a chronic and progressive gynecological disorder and is manifest by dysmenorrhea and a major cause of infertility and chronic pelvic pain. The study was designed to compare the value of cervico-vaginal fluid of interleukin-1α (IL-1α) in patients with and without endometriosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Fifty women were assessed in this case control study. The case group included 25 patients with endometriosis. The control group included 25 women without any evidence of endometriosis or any other genital disease. Endometriosis was confirmed by laparoscopy and histopathological examination. Cervico-vaginal fluid samples were obtained from patients during the follicular phase and preup surgery to assess the levels of IL-1α in cervico-vaginal fluid. The level of IL-1α was assessed using commercially available Avi Bionhuman Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay kits (FIN-01720, Vantaa, Finland) for IL-1α. Receiver-operator curve analysis was used to estimate the power of IL-1α to distinguish subjects with endometriosis from controls.

RESULTS

The cervico-vaginal fluid level of IL-1α in cases was 210.44 ± 40.11 pg/mL and in controls was 54.28 ± 25.73 pg/mL, the differences between two groups was statistically significant (P < 0.0001). The cut-off point for cervico-vaginal fluid IL-1 for endometriosis was 105 pg/mL, with a sensitivity of 100% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 86.2-100), and specificity of 100% (95% CI: 86.2-100).

CONCLUSION

Results show a significant increase in the cervico-vaginal fluid levels of IL-1α, in women with endometriosis, that it can be a useful marker in the diagnosis of endometriosis.

Interleukin-1α -899 (+4845) C→T polymorphism is not associated with aggressive periodontitis susceptibility: A meta-analysis based on 19 case-control studies

A number of published studies investigated the association between interleukin-1α (IL-1α) −899 (+4845) C→T polymorphism and susceptibility to aggressive periodontitis (AgP). However, the results from different studies are controversial. This study was conducted to further investigate the association between IL-1α −899 (+4845) C→T polymorphism and AgP using a meta-analysis. A search was conducted through PubMed up to May 1, 2013 and a total of 19 relevant case-control studies were identified. The results of this meta-analysis demonstrated that IL-1α −899 (+4845) C→T polymorphism is not associated with susceptibility to AgP under allele T vs. C [odds ratio (OR)=1.00, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.88–1.14, P=0.98; I²=28.86%] or allele A vs. C comparison (OR=0.99, 95% CI: 0.85–1.14, P=0.85; I²=33.66%). The subgroup analyses based on ethnicity, source of controls and Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (HWE) also revealed no such association. There existed a weak publication bias (Egger’s test P=0.02). In conclusion, based on the currently available evidence, there is no association between IL-1α −899 (+4845) C→T polymorphism and susceptibility to AgP.

Small heterodimer partner overexpression partially protects against liver tumor development in farnesoid X receptor knockout mice

Farnesoid X receptor (FXR, Nr1h4) and small heterodimer partner (SHP, Nr0b2) are nuclear receptors that are critical to liver homeostasis. Induction of SHP serves as a major mechanism of FXR in suppressing gene expression. Both FXR(-/-) and SHP(-/-) mice develop spontaneous hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). SHP is one of the most strongly induced genes by FXR in the liver and is a tumor suppressor, therefore, we hypothesized that deficiency of SHP contributes to HCC development in the livers of FXR(-/-) mice and therefore, increased SHP expression in FXR(-/-) mice reduces liver tumorigenesis. To test this hypothesis, we generated FXR(-/-) mice with overexpression of SHP in hepatocytes (FXR(-/-)/SHP(Tg)) and determined the contribution of SHP in HCC development in FXR(-/-) mice. Hepatocyte-specific SHP overexpression did not affect liver tumor incidence or size in FXR(-/-) mice. However, SHP overexpression led to a lower grade of dysplasia, reduced indicator cell proliferation and increased apoptosis. All tumor-bearing mice had increased serum bile acid levels and IL-6 levels, which was associated with activation of hepatic STAT3. In conclusion, SHP partially protects FXR(-/-) mice from HCC formation by reducing tumor malignancy. However, disrupted bile acid homeostasis by FXR deficiency leads to inflammation and injury, which ultimately results in uncontrolled cell proliferation and tumorigenesis in the liver.

Interleukin-8 as a modulator of response to bevacizumab in preclinical models of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma

OBJECTIVES

Bevacizumab, a monoclonal antibody to VEGF-A, is under active clinical evaluation in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) and appears to be a promising therapy in at least a subset of patients. However, there are no reliable predictive biomarkers to identify those patients most likely to benefit. In this study, we assessed the efficacy of bevacizumab in HNSCC xenograft models to characterize escape mechanisms underlying intrinsic resistance and identify potential biomarkers of drug response.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We evaluated the angiogenic profile of HNSCC cells from sensitive and resistant cell lines using antibody array. We further examined the role of interleukin-8 (IL-8) in contributing to resistance both in vitro and in vivo, using a loss- and gain-of-function approach.

RESULTS

Angiogenic profiling indicated that resistant cells expressed higher levels of proangiogenic factors including IL-8, interleukin-1α (IL-1α), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), fibroblast growth factor-a (FGF-a), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). IL-8 was the most differentially expressed protein. IL-8 signaling compensated for VEGF inhibition in endothelial cells. Downregulation of IL-8 resulted in sensitization of resistant tumors to bevacizumab by disrupting angiogenesis and enhancing endothelial cell apoptosis. Overexpression of IL-8 in sensitive tumors conferred resistance to bevacizumab. Serum analysis of HNSCC patients treated with a bevacizumab-containing regime revealed high baseline IL-8 levels in a subset of patients refractory to treatment but not in responders.

CONCLUSIONS

These results implicate IL-8 in mediating intrinsic resistance to bevacizumab in HNSCC. Hence, co-targeting of VEGF and IL-8 may help overcome resistance and enhance therapeutic efficacy.

Corneal epithelial toxicity of antiglaucoma formulations: in vitro study of repeated applications

Background

By using a biologically relevant and sensitive three-dimensional model of human corneal epithelium and multiple endpoint analysis, assessment of the potential for eye irritation and long-term compatibility of four registered ophthalmological preparations, ie, Timolabak^®, Timoptol^®, Nyogel^®, and Timogel^®, was performed. This approach enables classification of the potential for irritation, discriminating between mildly irritant and non-irritant ocular substances.

Methods

The exposure protocol included two time periods, ie, 24 hours (acute application) and 72 hours (repeated applications twice daily). This approach allows assessment of not only the acute reaction but also possible recovery, as well as mimicking the potential cumulative effects associated with long-term application. Using benzalkonium chloride (BAK) 0.01% as a positive control, the following parameters were quantified: cellular viability by MTT test, histological analysis by hematoxylin and eosin staining, passive release of interleukin-1α by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and OCLN gene expression by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction.

Results

Cell viability was reduced to under the 50% cutoff value after acute exposure (24 hours) to BAK 0.01%, and after repeated application (72 hours) of Timoptol and Nyogel. Histological analysis after acute exposure showed signs of superficial damage with all formulations, and severe changes after repeated applications of Timoptol, BAK 0.01%, and Nyogel. Timolabak and Timogel did not significantly alter the morphology of the human corneal epithelial cells after the different exposure times. Interleukin-1α release was greater than that for the negative control (>20 pg/mL) and the positive control (BAK 0.01%), Nyogel, and Timoptol treatments and not different after treatment with Timolabak and Timogel. Expression of OCLN, a sign of epithelial barrier impairment, was only significantly upregulated at 24 hours by BAK 0.01%, suggesting a toxic reaction at the ocular surface. OCLN was also overexpressed after repeated application of Nyogel and Timogel.

Conclusion

Overall, the multiple endpoint analysis approach allows classification of these products according to decreasing order of irritation potential as follows: BAK 0.01%, Timoptol, Nyogel, Timogel, and Timolabak.

Regulation of antimicrobial peptide expression in human gingival keratinocytes by interleukin-1α

In the oral cavity, mucosal keratinocytes resist bacterial infection, in part, by producing broad-spectrum antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) including defensin, adrenomedullin and calprotectin. Epidermal keratinocyte expression of many AMPs increases in response to interleukin-1α (IL-1α). IL-1α is produced by epidermal keratinocytes and regulates cell differentiation. To better understand innate immunity in the oral cavity, we sought to determine how IL-1α might regulate expression of AMPs by human gingival keratinocytes (HGKs) using DNA microarray and Western blot analyses. HGKs from three subjects expressed eleven AMPs, including S100A7, S100A8, S100A9, S100A12, secretory leucocyte protease inhibitor, lipocalin 2 (LCN2), cystatin C and β-defensin 2. Of the expressed AMPs, S100A7, S100A12 and LCN2 were up-regulated by IL-1α (inducible AMPs); the other AMPs were considered to be constitutive. Human gingival keratinocytes, therefore, express constitutive and IL-1α-inducible AMPs to provide a rapid and robust innate response to microbial infection.

Conditional deletion of IkappaB-kinase-beta accelerates helicobacter-dependent gastric apoptosis, proliferation, and preneoplasia

BACKGROUND & AIMS

The nuclear factor kappaB (NF-kappaB)/IkappaB-kinase-beta (IKKbeta) pathway has been shown to represent a key link between inflammation and cancer, inducing pro-inflammatory cytokines in myeloid cells and anti-apoptotic pathways in epithelial cells. However, the role of NF-kappaB pathway in gastric carcinogenesis and injury has not been well-defined. We derived mice with a conditional knockout of IKKbeta in gastric epithelial cells (GECs) and myeloid cells, and examined responses to ionizing radiation (IR) and Helicobacter felis infection.

METHODS

Ikkbeta(Deltastom) mice were generated by crossing Foxa3-Cre mice to Ikkbeta(F/F) mice. Cellular stress was induced with IR and H felis in Ikkbeta(Deltastom), Ikkbeta(F/F), and cis-NF-kappaB-enhanced green fluorescent protein (GFP) reporter mice. Gastric histopathology, apoptosis, proliferation, necrosis, reactive oxygen species, and expression of cytokines, chemokines, and anti-apoptotic genes were assessed. The role of myeloid IKKbeta in these models was studied by crosses with LysM-Cre mice.

RESULTS

NF-kappaB activity was upregulated in myeloid cells with acute H felis infection, but in GECs by IR or long-term H felis infection during progression to dysplasia. Deletion of IKKbeta in GECs led to increased apoptosis, reactive oxygen species, and cellular necrosis, and resulted in up-regulation of interleukin-1alpha and down-regulation of anti-apoptotic genes. Loss of IKKbeta in GECs resulted in worse inflammation and more rapid progression to gastric preneoplasia, while loss of IKKbeta in myeloid cells inhibited development of gastric atrophy.

CONCLUSIONS

The loss of IKKbeta/NF-kappaB signaling in GECs results in increased apoptosis and necrosis in response to cellular stress, and accelerated development of dysplasia by Helicobacter infection.

Role of FGFR2-signaling in the pathogenesis of acne

It is the purpose of this review to extend our understanding of the fibroblast growth factor (FGF) receptor-2b-signaling network in the pathogenesis of acne. A new concept of the role of FGFR2b-signaling in dermal-epithelial interaction for skin appendage formation, pilosebaceous follicle homeostasis, comedogenesis, sebaceous gland proliferation and lipogenesis is presented. The FGFR2-gain-of-function mutations in Apert syndrome and unilateral acneiform nevus are most helpful model diseases pointing the way to androgen-dependent dermalepithelial FGFR2-signaling in acne. Androgen-mediated upregulation of FGFR2b-signaling in acne-prone skin appears to be involved in the pathogenesis of acne vulgaris. In organotypic skin cultures, keratinocyte-derived interleukin-1alpha stimulated fibroblasts to secrete FGF7 which stimulated FGFR2b-mediated keratinocyte proliferation. Postnatal deletion of FGFR2b in mice resulted in severe sebaceous gland atrophy. The importance of FGFR2b in sebaceous gland physiology is further supported by the mode of action of anti-acne agents which have been proposed to attenuate FGFR2b-signaling. Downregulation of FGFR2b-signaling by isotretinoin explains its therapeutic effect in acne. Downregulation of FGFR2b-signaling during the first trimester of pregnancy disturbs branched morphogenesis and explains retinoid embryotoxicity. Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), the mediator of growth hormone during puberty, intracts with androgen-dependent FGFR2b-signaling and links androgen- and FGF-mediated signal transduction important in sebaceous gland homeostasis. The search for a follicular defect in the dermalepithelial regulation of growth factor-signaling in acne-prone skin appears to be a most promising approach to clarify the pathogenesis of acne.

Effect of maternal smoking on breast milk interleukin-1alpha, beta-endorphin, and leptin concentrations and leptin concentrations

Tobacco smoke is immunotoxic, but the effect of smoking on the immunologic function of the mammary gland of mothers who smoke cigarettes ("smoker mothers") has not been studied. Our objective was to test, in smoker mothers, the colostral and transitional milk concentrations of interleukin-(IL)1alpha. The immunomodulators beta-endorphin and leptin were also tested. Pregnant women who self-identified as smokers (greater than or equal to 5 cigarettes per day through pregnancy) or nonsmokers were recruited for study participation. The study population included 42 smoker and 40 nonsmoker nursing mothers, with otherwise uncomplicated gestation, delivery, and puerperium, who were breast-feeding ad libitum their healthy neonates. Colostrum was obtained on the third postpartum day at 0900 hr and transitional milk on the 10th postpartum day at 0900 hr. IL-1alpha concentrations were significantly reduced in the colostrum of smoker mothers compared with nonsmoker mothers (p < 0.01). Colostral beta-endorphin and leptin concentrations were comparable. No significant differences were found between smoker and nonsmoker lactating mothers in transitional milk concentrations of IL-1alpha, beta-endorphin, and leptin. Moreover, beta-endorphin and leptin concentrations were significantly reduced in transitional milk samples compared with colostrum of both smoker and nonsmoker mothers (p < 0.05); also, IL-1alpha transitional milk concentrations were reduced compared with colostrum, but without any significance. This analysis shows that maternal smoking alters the colostral milk levels of the proinflammatory cytokine IL-1alpha. The altered postnatal provision of alternative source of the proinflammatory cytokine IL-1alpha adds understanding to how breast-feeding could be nonprotective against infections among the neonates nursed by smoker mothers.

Interleukin-1alpha and tumour necrosis factor-alpha modulate airway smooth muscle DNA synthesis by induction of cyclo-oxygenase-2: inhibition by dexamethasone and fluticasone propionate

1. Previous studies have established that glucocorticoids inhibit airway smooth muscle DNA synthesis. The effects of a combination of the pro-inflammatory cytokines, interleukin-1alpha (IL-1alpha) and tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) on the inhibition of DNA synthesis by glucocorticoids in human cultured airway smooth muscle have now been investigated, since these cytokines are chronically expressed in asthmatic airways. 2. Thrombin (0.3 u ml(-1)) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF, 300 pM) stimulated increases in DNA synthesis which were concentration-dependently inhibited by dexamethasone (1-1000 nM). 3. The cytokine mixture, comprising IL-1alpha (0.01 and 0.1 pM) and TNF-alpha (3 and 30 pM), directly evoked increases in DNA synthesis which were attenuated by dexamethasone. However, the cytokine mixture prevented responses to bFGF or thrombin. 4. Paradoxically, in the presence of the cytokine mixture and bFGF, dexamethasone (1-1000 nM) concentration-dependently increased DNA synthesis. Furthermore, neither dexamethasone (100 nM) nor fluticasone propionate (1 nM) inhibited DNA synthesized in response to bFGF/cytokine mixture combination and dexamethasone was similarly inactive against the thrombin/cytokine mixture. 5. The levels of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), an established inhibitor of airway smooth muscle DNA synthesis, remained below the limits of assay detection (0.05 nM) under basal conditions or following stimulation with either thrombin or bFGF. In contrast, the cytokine mixture alone, and in the presence of thrombin or bFGF, induced biologically active levels of PGE2. Dexamethasone (100 nM), the non-selective cyclo-oxygenase (COX) inhibitor indomethacin (3 microM) or the selective COX-2 inhibitor L-745,337 (0.3 microM) completely inhibited synthesis of PGE2. 6. Neither indomethacin (3 microM) nor L-745,337 (0.3 microM) influenced thrombin- or bFGF-induced DNA synthesis. However, each COX inhibitor enhanced DNA synthesis in cytokine-treated cells. 7. In unstimulated airway smooth muscle cells, COX-1, but not COX-2 protein was detectable by Western blotting. The induction of COX-2 protein by the cytokine mixture was attenuated by dexamethasone (100 nM), whereas the level of COX-1 protein was unaffected by either the cytokines or by dexamethasone. 8. Cytokine-induced, COX-2-dependent eicosanoid production inhibits DNA synthesis. The paradoxical increase in DNA synthesis observed in glucocorticoid treated airway smooth muscle stimulated by cytokine/bFGF combinations may be explained by the ability of glucocorticoids to repress COX-2 induction and prevent cytokine-induction of the DNA synthesis inhibitor, PGE2.

Cytokines in the human ovary: presence in follicular fluid and correlation with leukotriene B4

PURPOSE

This study was undertaken to correlate the follicular levels of interleukin (IL)-1 alpha, IL-2, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), and leukotriene (LT) B4 with oocyte maturity, fertilization, and achievement of pregnancy.

METHODS

The material was obtained from 22 women undergoing IVF, 8 of whom became pregnant and 14 of whom did not.

RESULTS

All of the studied cytokines and LT B4 were found in follicular fluids, but there were no significant differences according to oocyte maturity, fertilization, embryo quality, and achievement of pregnancy. On the other hand, a significant positive correlation was found between IL-1 alpha and TNF-alpha, IL-1 alpha, and LT B4 as well as between TNF-alpha and LT B4 in follicular fluids with subsequently fertilized oocytes.

CONCLUSIONS

It seems that IL-1 alpha, TNF-alpha and LT B4 may take part in the process of follicle wall degradation, and their follicular correlations may suggest more optimal follicular and oocyte development and maturation.

Interleukin-1alpha synergistic in vivo enhancement of cyclophosphamide- and carboplatin-mediated antitumor activity

Interleukin-1alpha (IL-1alpha) has potent acute antitumor activity in vivo and can enhance the efficacy of chemotherapeutic drug-mediated antitumor responses. Studies were undertaken to examine the ability of IL-1alpha to enhance the activity of cyclophosphamide (CTX) administered in combination with carboplatin. To determine the in vivo effect of IL-1alpha, CTX and/or carboplatin, mice bearing 14-day RIF-1 tumors were treated on day 0 with a concurrent i.p. injection of varying doses of CTX (5-150 mg/kg), human IL-1alpha (125 microg/kg), and carboplatin (50 mg/kg) and examined 24 h later for the surviving fraction by the in vivo excision clonogenic-tumor-cell assay. Even at the lowest doses of CTX, IL-1alpha significantly enhanced the clonogenic tumor cell kill when compared to treatment with CTX alone. When carboplatin was added to the treatment schema, significantly greater clonogenic cell killing and tumor regrowth delay were observed as compared to any agent alone or a two-drug combination (CTX/IL-1alpha or CTX/carboplatin). Significant enhancement was observed even at low doses of CTX in combination with carboplatin and IL-1alpha. The interaction between the three-drug combination was found to be synergistic as determined by the median dose effect with significant dose reduction apparent for IL-1alpha and CTX when used in this combination. These results demonstrate that IL-1alpha can synergistically enhance the antitumor efficacy of CTX and the combination of CTX and carboplatin.

The effects of interleukin-1 therapy on peripheral blood granulocyte function in humans

During a phase I trial of interleukin-1 alpha (IL-1 alpha) in patients with ovarian carcinomas, the effects of this treatment on blood granulocyte respiratory burst and locomotive responses were examined. Differences in baseline granulocyte function in patients as well as dose-related effects of IL-1 alpha treatment were observed. Patients enrolled early in the trial (low-dose patients) had significantly lower locomotive responses before treatment than their paired controls; these low responses normalized after 5 days of continuous-infusion IL-1 alpha treatment. Patients enrolled later (high-dose patients) had normal locomotive responses before treatment and IL-1 alpha treatment was associated with suppression of responses to selected stimuli at the end of treatment. Pretreatment respiratory burst responses in both low- and high-dose patient groups were essentially normal, but the rates of granulocyte H2O2 production following phorbol myristate acetate stimulation became significantly less than control values at the end of treatment. In vitro exposure of either patient or control cells to 150 U/ml IL-1 alpha did not alter their locomotive or respiratory burst responses, suggesting the observed in vivo effects were not mediated directly by IL-1 alpha. Treatment with IL-1 alpha is associated with changes in ex vivo granulocyte function that are related to the IL-1 alpha dose. Treatment with low doses of IL-1 alpha may provide a means of normalizing abnormal polymorphonuclear leukocyte function in some patients with ovarian malignancies.