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[Expression and function of interleukin-18 in mouse dextran sulfate sodium colitis]
Zhong-Hui Wen1, Qin Quyang, Hu Zhang
1Department of Gastroenterology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
Summary
Colitis involves inflammation where colon epithelial cells express and secrete Interleukin-18 (IL-18), a key cytokine. This finding highlights IL-18
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Gastroenterology
Context:
- Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) pathogenesis involves proinflammatory cytokines.
- Interleukin-18 (IL-18) is implicated in Th1 immune responses relevant to IBD.
Purpose:
- To investigate the expression and function of IL-18 within the colonic mucosa of mice experiencing dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis.
Summary:
- Immunohistochemistry revealed IL-18 expression in colon epithelial cells and lamina propria mononuclear cells of DSS-colitic mice.
- Stimulation assays and Western blot confirmed the presence of IL-18 proteins in both intestinal epithelial cell extracts and supernatants.
Impact:
- Demonstrates that colon epithelial cells in DSS-induced colitis actively express and secrete both pro-IL-18 and active IL-18.
- Provides insights into the cellular sources and secretion of IL-18 during experimental colitis, relevant to IBD research.