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Leukemia inhibitory factor production by rat mast cells
J S Marshall1, J Gauldie, L Nielsen
1Molecular Virology and Immunology Programme, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
European Journal of Immunology
|September 1, 1993
Summary
Mast cells produce Leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF), a cytokine crucial for immune responses, neuronal development, and bone metabolism. This production can be enhanced, suggesting a significant role for mast cells in various physiological processes.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
- Cytokine Signaling
Background:
- Leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) is a cytokine involved in immune regulation, inflammation, neuronal development, and bone metabolism.
- Mast cells are immune cells known for their role in allergic reactions and inflammation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the production of LIF at both mRNA and bioactivity levels in rat mast cells and mast cell lines.
- To determine if mast cell activation influences LIF production.
Main Methods:
- Utilized hepatocyte-stimulating factor activity assay to measure LIF bioactivity.
- Employed neutralizing antibodies specific for LIF to confirm its presence.
- Analyzed mRNA expression of LIF in mast cells.
- Treated mast cells with calcium ionophore A23187 to assess activation effects.
Main Results:
- Two rat mast cell lines (RBL.2H3 and RCMC9) demonstrated endogenous production of LIF bioactivity.
- LIF production by mast cell lines was enhanced upon treatment with calcium ionophore A23187.
- Freshly isolated rat peritoneal mast cells expressed LIF mRNA.
- No interleukin-6 production was detected in mast cells under the tested conditions.
Conclusions:
- Rat mast cells, including primary cells and cell lines, produce Leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF).
- LIF production by mast cells can be modulated by activation stimuli.
- These findings highlight a potential role for mast cells in processes regulated by LIF, such as neuronal development, hematopoiesis, bone metabolism, and acute-phase responses.