Interleukin 1 production by human monocytes induced in culture with K562 cells

Abstract

The effect of neoplastic cells, K562, was evaluated on interleukin 1 (IL-1) production by peripheral blood monocytes of healthy humans. Secretion of the monokine was compared with that resulting from stimulation with bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or iron particles. In parallel, ability of non-malignant cells to induce production of monocyte-derived IL-1 was tested using allogeneic leukocytes (PBL). The studies were performed using concanavalin A (Con A) thymocyte co-activation assay, applying colorimetric assay of proliferation. The results obtained showed that IL-1 secretion by monocytes took place not only after tumor-cell stimulation, but also in co-cultures with allogeneic PBL. LPS and iron particles, however, were more efficient in stimulating IL-1 production. Absence of IL-1 activity was noted in supernatants of monocyte cultures in the presence of dexamethasone. Supernatants showing IL-1 activity were inactive in the presence of soluble immune response suppressor (SIRS) in IL-1 assay.