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[Expression of IL6 and TNF-alpha in normal and pathological kidney]
Abstract:
The IL6 and TNF alpha specific mRNAs are expressed in normal human kidney; IL6 protein can be detected in normal glomerular mesangium by immunochemistry while TNF alpha is not present. Increased expression of IL6 mRNA is found within the glomeruli in mesangioproliferative glomerulonephritis and IL6 protein is detectable in proliferating mesangial areas. TNF alpha is mainly detected in infiltrating macrophages. During acute rejection episodes de novo expression of TNF alpha appears in renal transplant tubular epithelial cells as well as that of HLA class II antigens, ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 molecules. In renal cell carcinomas, the tumoral cells produce in vivo and in vitro IL6 and TNF alpha at the mRNA and protein levels. Therefore parenchymatous renal cells can produce IL6 and TNF alpha in various pathological conditions. However the mechanisms which regulate the production of these cytokines as well as their role in the genesis or the amplification of tissular damage remain to be elucidated.
Insights
Kidney cells produce Interleukin-6 (IL6) and Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF alpha) in various diseases. Their exact roles in kidney damage require further investigation.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Immunology
- Molecular Biology
Context:
- Interleukin-6 (IL6) and Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF alpha) are key cytokines involved in inflammation and cellular processes.
- Their expression and role in normal and pathological kidney conditions have been areas of interest.
Purpose:
- To investigate the expression and localization of IL6 and TNF alpha in normal human kidneys and in various renal pathologies, including glomerulonephritis, transplant rejection, and renal cell carcinoma.
- To determine whether parenchymal renal cells can produce these cytokines under different pathological conditions.
Summary:
- In normal kidneys, IL6 mRNA and protein are present in the glomerulus, while TNF alpha is absent.
- Mesangioproliferative glomerulonephritis shows increased IL6 mRNA and protein in glomeruli, with TNF alpha localized to macrophages.
- Acute renal transplant rejection involves de novo TNF alpha expression in tubular cells, alongside HLA class II, ICAM-1, and VCAM-1.
- Renal cell carcinomas exhibit both IL6 and TNF alpha production by tumoral cells at mRNA and protein levels.
- These findings indicate that renal parenchymal cells can produce IL6 and TNF alpha in various pathological states.
Impact:
- This study highlights the differential expression of IL6 and TNF alpha in diverse renal diseases, suggesting their potential involvement in kidney pathophysiology.
- It establishes that renal parenchymal cells are a source of these cytokines in pathological conditions.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the regulatory mechanisms and precise roles of IL6 and TNF alpha in kidney damage and disease progression.