Interactions between human embryonic forebrain cells and the cytokines interferon-gamma and interleukin-4

In the present study we investigated the capacity of human first trimester forebrain cells at different gestational ages to produce IFN-gamma and IL-4. We also studied the effects of IFN-gamma on their proliferation, survival and expression of MHC antigens. IFN-gamma but not IL-4 was spontaneously produced after 24 h cultures. Furthermore, IFN-gamma exhibited anti-proliferative effects and induced MHC expression on these cells. However, the IFN-gamma exposed cultures showed significantly higher cell survival compared to un-exposed cultures. Co-culture with IL-4 blocked the IFN-gamma production and reversed its anti-proliferative effects. These interactions suggest important roles for cytokines in the survival, proliferation and differentiation of human embryonic and fetal forebrain cells.