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Renal cells express a functional interleukin-15 receptor.
Noa Tejman-Yarden1, Moshe Zlotnik, Eli Lewis
1Nephrology Laboratory and Department of Nephrology, Soroka University Medical Center, P.O. Box 151, Beer-Sheva 84101, Israel.
Summary
Interleukin-15 (IL-15) receptors are present and functional in kidney cells. This suggests IL-15 may regulate kidney function through autocrine or paracrine signaling.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Renal Cell Biology
- Cytokine Signaling
Background:
- Interleukin-15 (IL-15) is a cytokine involved in graft rejection and cell survival, including renal cells.
- IL-15 signaling requires a heterotrimeric receptor complex including IL-2 receptor beta/gamma (IL-2/15Rβγc) and a specific alpha-chain (IL-15Rα).
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and function of the IL-15 receptor (IL-15R) in human and murine renal cells.
- To determine the role of IL-15 and other cytokines in regulating IL-15R expression and signaling in renal cells.
Main Methods:
- Isolated and sequenced IL-15Rα mRNA from human tubular epithelial cells (TEC).
- Detected IL-15Rα protein expression in TEC and renal tissues using flow cytometry, western blotting, and ligand binding.
- Assessed IL-15R subunit expression in murine kidney and analyzed Jak-STAT pathway activation following IL-15 stimulation.
Main Results:
- Full-length IL-15Rα mRNA and protein were expressed in human TEC and in murine renal tissues.
- Interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) upregulated IL-15Rα expression in TEC, while IL-2 and IL-15 had no effect.
- IL-15 stimulation induced tyrosine phosphorylation of Jak-1, Jak-3, STAT-3, and STAT-5 in TEC, indicating functional signaling.
Conclusions:
- A functional IL-15 receptor complex is present in the kidney.
- Renal cells produce IL-15, suggesting a potential autocrine/paracrine regulatory role in kidney physiology and pathology.