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Induction of complement factor B activity in human fibroblasts by IL-6/IFN-beta 2 and IFN-gamma

I Barash1, Z Fishelson, M Revel

  • 1Molecular Genetics and Virology Department, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel.

Journal of Biological Regulators and Homeostatic Agents
|October 1, 1989
PubMed

Insights

Human skin fibroblasts produce complement Factor B when inflammation occurs. Interleukin-6 (IL-6) and Interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) significantly boost this production, suggesting a role in inflammatory responses.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Cell Biology
  • Inflammation Research

Background:

  • Human skin fibroblasts synthesize and secrete complement Factor B, a key component of the complement alternative pathway.
  • Inflammatory mediators like lipopolysaccharide and cytokines can stimulate Factor B production in fibroblasts.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the role of Interleukin-6 (IL-6) and Interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) in stimulating complement Factor B synthesis in human skin fibroblasts.
  • To determine if these cytokines cooperate to enhance Factor B secretion and biological activity.

Main Methods:

  • Fibroblast cell cultures were stimulated with recombinant IL-6/IFN-beta 2 and IFN-gamma.
  • Factor B synthesis and secretion were measured.
  • Biological activity of secreted Factor B was assessed using a hemolysis test.
  • Cooperative effects of IL-6 and IFN-gamma on (2'-5') A synthetase induction were also examined.

Main Results:

  • Recombinant IL-6/IFN-beta 2 alone stimulated Factor B synthesis.
  • The addition of IFN-gamma significantly potentiated the effect of IL-6 on Factor B synthesis.
  • Co-stimulation with IL-6 and IFN-gamma resulted in the secretion of biologically active Factor B.
  • IL-6 and IFN-gamma also cooperated in inducing (2'-5') A synthetase.

Conclusions:

  • IL-6 and IFN-gamma exhibit a cooperative effect in stimulating the synthesis and secretion of biologically active complement Factor B by human skin fibroblasts.
  • This synergistic cytokine action may contribute to local inflammatory processes.
  • The cooperation between IL-6 and IFN-gamma extends to the induction of (2'-5') A synthetase, a mediator of interferon action.

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