PRODUCTION OF IL-18 IN PRESENCE OF METAL-γ-GLOBULIN COMPLEXES

Abstract

Present study used in vitro cultures of human peripheral blood cells (PBC) with addition of γ-globulins, or their complexes with copper and zinc, or single copper and zinc ions. We have shown that, among common pool of induced cytokines, interleukin-18 (IL-18) was detectable at a concentration of 24.4±1.03 to 33.25±0.90 pg/ml. IL-18 production in PBC after 24h treatment with γ-globulin-zinc complexes zinc was higher by 13-19% than following 24-h incubation with control proteins, or zinc ions. Accordingly, IL-18 production in PBC after 72-h incubation with γ-globulin copper complexes was higher than with control proteins. In parallel to IL-18, human PBC produce detectable interferon (IFN, up to 32 U/ml). We have shown a strong positive correlation between the peaks of IFN increase, and elevated IL-18 levels caused by γ-globulin-metal complexes. Hence, an opportunity for regulation of intracellular IL-18 and IFN production by γ-globulin-metal complexes at the level of basal cell functions was demonstrated in context of IFNγ induction, thus causing Th1-directed shift of immune response.

Keywords

• γ-globulin
• metal complexes
• il-18