Prostaglandins do not mediate interferon-alpha effects on mouse behavior

Interferons play an important role in cell function as well as host defense against virus infection. Interferon-alpha stimulates cyclooxygenase-catalyzed prostaglandin synthesis. Therefore, a cyclooxygenase inhibitor was used to determine whether the behavioral effects of mouse interferon-alpha in mice are mediated by increased prostaglandin synthesis. Male DBA/2J mice were exposed to 1600 U/g mouse interferon-alpha, the buffer in which the interferon was diluted, 5 mg/kg of a cyclooxygenase inhibitor, indomethacin, or 5 mg/kg indomethacin plus 1600 U/g mouse interferon-alpha. As in previous studies, interferon decreased activity and food pellets obtained in the first 4 hours after administration. Indomethacin had no effect on this effect of interferon; therefore, we conclude that the behavioral effects of interferon are not mediated by the fever or anorectic effects of prostaglandins.