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Role of macrophage migration inhibitory factor in influenza H5N1 virus pneumonia

X Q Hou1, Y W Gao, S T Yang

  • 1Jilin University, Changchun, PR China.

Acta Virologica
|November 28, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) is involved in H5N1 influenza pneumonia by increasing inflammatory cytokines. Targeting MIF may offer a promising treatment strategy for H5N1 virus infections.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Virology
  • Pathology

Background:

  • H5N1 influenza causes severe, fatal pneumonia in humans and birds.
  • Aberrant pulmonary inflammatory responses are implicated in H5N1 pathogenesis.
  • Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) is a key regulator of innate immunity and inflammation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the role of MIF in H5N1 influenza virus pneumonia.
  • To evaluate the therapeutic potential of inhibiting MIF in a murine model of H5N1 infection.

Main Methods:

  • Murine model of H5N1 influenza virus infection.
  • Quantification of MIF mRNA and protein levels in lungs and serum.
  • Administration of isoxazolone-1 (ISO-1) to inhibit MIF action.
  • Measurement of pulmonary inflammatory cytokines and chemokines.

Main Results:

  • Increased MIF mRNA in lungs and MIF protein in serum of H5N1-infected mice.
  • Inhibition of MIF by ISO-1 did not improve survival but significantly reduced pulmonary levels of IL-1beta, IL-6, TNF-alpha, and IP-10.
  • MIF contributes to the induction of inflammatory cytokines and chemokines during H5N1 pneumonia.

Conclusions:

  • MIF plays a significant role in the inflammatory response to H5N1 influenza virus.
  • Targeting MIF pharmacologically may be a viable therapeutic strategy for H5N1 influenza pneumonia.

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