Methionine-enkephalin augments interleukin-6 production and gene expression

Zhongguo Yao Li Xue Bao. 1995 May;16(3):205-9.

Abstract

Aim: To study the effect of methionine-enkephalin (met-enk) on the production and gene expression of interleukin-6 (IL-6) both in vivo and in vitro.

Methods: IL-6 was assayed using its dependent cell line MH60.BSF2 and measured by MTT spectrophotometry. IL-6 gene expression was proceeded by RNA isolation and hybridization with IL-6 cDNA.

Results: Met-enk stimulated IL-6 mRNA expression and increased its stability. Met-enk 0.1 and 1 mg.kg-1 ip for 6 d enhanced serum IL-6 levels.

Conclusion: An up-regulation of IL-6 by met-enk was mediated through an increase in transcriptional activity and stability of IL-6 mRNA.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Enkephalin, Methionine / pharmacology*
  • Gene Expression / drug effects
  • Interleukin-6 / biosynthesis*
  • Interleukin-6 / genetics
  • Macrophages, Peritoneal / metabolism*
  • Mice
  • Mice, Inbred BALB C
  • Mice, Inbred C57BL
  • RNA, Messenger / biosynthesis*
  • Tumor Cells, Cultured / drug effects
  • Tumor Cells, Cultured / metabolism
  • Up-Regulation

Substances

  • Interleukin-6
  • RNA, Messenger
  • Enkephalin, Methionine