Distinct cytokine profile in SIDS brain: a common denominator in a multifactorial syndrome?

Cytokines modify neuronal function. Dysfunction in vital centers is reported in sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). The authors detected high neuronal interleukin (IL)-1beta immunoreactivity in the arcuate and dorsal vagal nuclei in SIDS. This IL-1 overexpression might contribute to molecular interactions in brainstem neurovegetative centers, causing disturbed homeostatic control of cardiorespiratory and arousal responses, possibly leading to SIDS.