Production of interleukin-6 and interleukin-8 by human mammary gland epithelial cells

Kimberly H. Palkowetz, Cassandre L. Royer, Roberto Garofalo, Helen E. Rudloff, Frank C. Schmalstieg, Armond S. Goldman

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

69 Scopus citations

Abstract

The production of transforming growth factor-β2 (TGF-β2), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-6, IL-8, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) by spontaneously immortalized human mammary gland epithelial cells of non-malignant origin and the effect of prolactin upon the production of those cytokines were investigated. Cells were cultured on plastic with epithelial growth factor, insulin, and hydrocortisone. Cytokines were quantified by enzyme-immunoassays. The cells produced IL-6 and IL-8, but no detectable TGF-β2, IL-1β, or TNF-α. Although prolactin enhanced the uptake of [3H]thymidine, it did not alter the production of cytokines/interleukins. Because of the marked production of IL-8 by mammary epithelium and a past report of TGF activity in human milk, those agents were quantified in human milk. The mean ± S.D. concentrations of IL-8 and TGF-β2 in human milk obtained in the first 3 days of lactation were 3684 ± 2910 and 130 ± 108 pg/ml, respectively. Thus, IL-8 and TGF-β2 are normal constituents in human milk, and human mammary gland epithelium may be responsible for producing some of the IL-6 and IL-8 in human milk.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)57-64
Number of pages8
JournalJournal of Reproductive Immunology
Volume26
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 1994
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Human milk
  • Interleukin-1β
  • Interleukin-6
  • Interleukin-8
  • Mammary gland epithelium
  • Prolactin
  • Transforming growth factor-β2
  • Tumor necrosis factor-α

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Immunology and Allergy
  • Immunology
  • Reproductive Medicine
  • Obstetrics and Gynecology

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Production of interleukin-6 and interleukin-8 by human mammary gland epithelial cells'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this