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Updated: Jul 14, 2026

Analyzing the Functions of Mast Cells In Vivo Using 'Mast Cell Knock-in' Mice
Published on: May 27, 2015
Modulation of mast cell proteinase-activated receptor expression and IL-4 release by IL-12
Huiyun Zhang1, Xiaoyu Yang, Haiwei Yang
1The Key Immunopharmacology Laboratory of Guangdong Province, Allergy and Inflammation Research Institute, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China.
Abstract:
It has been recognized that protease-activated receptors (PARs), interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-6 are involved in the pathogenesis of allergic diseases, and that IL-12 plays a role in adaptive immune response. However, little is known of the effect of IL-12 on protease-induced cytokine release from mast cells. In the present study, we examined potential influence of IL-12 on mast cell PAR expression and IL-4 and IL-6 release. The results showed that IL-12 downregulated the expression of PAR-2 and upregulated expression of PAR-4 on P815 cells. It also downregulated expression of PAR-2 mRNA, and upregulated expression of PAR-1, PAR-3 and PAR-4 mRNAs. However, IL-12 enhanced trypsin- and tryptase-induced PAR-2 and PAR-2 mRNA expression. It was observed that IL-12 induced release of IL-4, but reduced trypsin- and tryptase-stimulated IL-4 secretion from P815 cells. PD98059, U0126 and LY294002 not only abolished IL-12-induced IL-4 release but also inhibited IL-12-induced phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase and Akt. In conclusion, IL-12 may serve as a regulator in keeping the balance of Th1 and Th2 cytokine production in allergic inflammation.
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