Peripherally administered IL-1 alpha interferes with scopolamine-induced amnesia in mice

We studied the effects of human recombinant interleukin-1 alpha on scopolamine-induced amnesia for a passive avoidance response in the mouse. Post-training intraperitoneal administration of the cytokine (0.25 or 0.50 microgram/mouse) significantly reduced the amnesic effect of scopolamine (1.0 mg/kg i.p.). Our results indicate that peripheral interleukin-1 alpha can influence behavior and suggest the involvement of the cholinergic system in the neuromodulatory actions of this cytokine.