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The effects of rM-CSF and rIL-6 therapy on immunosuppressed antiorthostatically suspended mice

J W Armstrong1, K Kirby-Dobbels, S K Chapes

  • 1Division of Biology, Kansas State University, Manhattan 66506, USA.

Insights

Antiorthostatic suspension suppressed macrophage development by reducing macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF). Recombinant M-CSF therapy restored macrophage development, indicating M-CSF

Area of Science:

  • Space biology and immunology
  • Bone biology and immunology

Background:

  • Antiorthostatic suspension, a model for microgravity, suppresses macrophage development in bone.
  • Bone marrow cells in suspended mice show reduced secretion of macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF) and interleukin-6 (IL-6).
  • M-CSF and IL-6 are critical for bone marrow macrophage maturation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the role of M-CSF and IL-6 in suppressed macrophage development during antiorthostatic suspension.
  • To determine if M-CSF or IL-6 therapy can reverse the effects of antiorthostatic suspension on macrophage development.

Main Methods:

  • Mice were subjected to antiorthostatic suspension.
  • Bone marrow cells were analyzed for M-CSF and IL-6 secretion.
  • Recombinant M-CSF or IL-6 was administered intraperitoneally to treated mice.
  • Macrophage development was assessed in treated and control mice.

Main Results:

  • Antiorthostatic suspension suppressed macrophage development in both loaded and unloaded bones.
  • Bone marrow cells from suspended mice secreted significantly less M-CSF and IL-6 compared to controls.
  • Recombinant M-CSF therapy successfully reversed the suppressive effects of suspension on macrophage development.
  • Recombinant IL-6 therapy did not reverse the suppressive effects.

Conclusions:

  • Depressed levels of M-CSF, not IL-6, contribute to inhibited bone marrow macrophage progenitor maturation under antiorthostatic suspension.
  • Bone marrow cells producing M-CSF are sensitive to the effects of antiorthostatic suspension.
  • M-CSF is a key factor in maintaining macrophage development during simulated microgravity.

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