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In Vivo Imaging Uncovers the Migratory Behavior of Leukocytes within the Joints
Published on: December 9, 2025
Interleukin 15 mediates joint destruction in Staphylococcus aureus arthritis
Louise Henningsson1, Pernilla Jirholt, Yalda Rahpeymai Bogestål
1Department of Rheumatology and Inflammation Research, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.
The Journal of Infectious Diseases
|April 18, 2012
Summary
Interleukin-15 (IL-15) drives joint destruction in Staphylococcus aureus arthritis. Blocking IL-15 reduces joint damage and morbidity, offering a new therapeutic target beyond antibiotics for this severe infection.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Rheumatology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Staphylococcus aureus arthritis leads to rapid joint damage, necessitating novel therapeutic targets.
- Interleukin-15 (IL-15) is implicated in osteoclastogenesis and bacterial clearance, key factors in S. aureus-induced joint destruction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of IL-15 in the pathogenesis of S. aureus-induced arthritis.
Main Methods:
- Utilized IL-15 knockout mice and wildtype mice treated with anti-IL-15 antibodies (aIL-15ab) or isotype control.
- Intravenously inoculated mice with toxic shock syndrome toxin-1 producing S. aureus.
Main Results:
- Absence or blockade of IL-15 significantly reduced weight loss and synovitis severity.
- IL-15 deficiency decreased osteoclast numbers in joints; aIL-15ab treatment enhanced bacterial clearance.
- Joint destruction was significantly attenuated in IL-15 deficient or blocked mice.
Conclusions:
- IL-15 mediates joint destruction and contributes to morbidity in S. aureus arthritis.
- Targeting IL-15 presents a promising therapeutic strategy in conjunction with antibiotics for S. aureus-induced arthritis.
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