[Production of IL-6 and IL-1 alpha by human corneal epithelial cells]

By using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), it was demonstrated that cultured human corneal epithelial cells produced interleukin-6 (IL-6) without any stimulation. As lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulation did not induce further production of IL-6 and IL-1 alpha, it was suggested that IL-6 was produced naturally as in the case of IL-1 alpha production which has been previously reported by the author. Production of IL-1 alpha and IL-6 in the human corneal epithelial cells may play a role in amplifying immune responses on the ocular surface.