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Distinct requirements for IL-6 in polyclonal and specific Ig production induced by microorganisms
D Markine-Goriaynoff1, T D Nguyen, G Bigaignon
1Unit of Experimental Medicine, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Université Catholique de Louvain, Avenue Hippocrate 74, 1200 Bruxelles, Belgium.
International Immunology
|August 30, 2001
Summary
Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is crucial for polyclonal immunoglobulin (Ig) production against viruses and parasites, but not for specific antibody responses. This cytokine supports both T-dependent and T-independent Ig synthesis.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Virology
- Parasitology
Background:
- Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is a pleiotropic cytokine involved in immune responses.
- The role of IL-6 in immunoglobulin (Ig) production during infections by lactate dehydrogenase-elevating virus (LDV), Toxoplasma gondii, and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) requires further elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the role of IL-6 in Ig production induced by LDV, T. gondii, and LPS in mice.
- To differentiate the impact of IL-6 on polyclonal versus specific antibody responses.
Main Methods:
- Mice deficient for IL-6 were infected with LDV, T. gondii, or LPS.
- Analysis of B cell proliferation, T-dependent IgG2a, and T-independent IgG3 production.
- Comparison of antibody responses in IL-6 deficient mice versus normal counterparts.
Main Results:
- IL-6 deficiency reduced total T-dependent IgG2a production after LDV infection.
- Polyclonal IgG2a production induced by T. gondii and total IgG3 secretion induced by LPS were significantly reduced in IL-6 deficient mice.
- Specific antibody responses against LDV or non-viral antigens were not decreased in the absence of IL-6.
Conclusions:
- IL-6 plays a significant role in T-dependent and T-independent polyclonal Ig production.
- IL-6 is essential for host defense against viral and parasitic infections at the polyclonal antibody level.
- IL-6 is not required for the development of specific antibody responses to these pathogens.
