Abstract

Proper regulation of the immune response is essential for immune homeostasis. Several proinflammatory cytokines released from activated monocytes mediate inflammation, including interleukine-8 (IL-8) which recruits neutrophils to the site of inflammation. 17β-Estradiol (E2) has a direct role in the modulation of the innate immune function and mediates profound effects on immune function of the monocytes. The effects of 17β-E2 are mediated principally by two receptor subtypes, ERα and ERβ; both are expressed in monocytes. The aim of this study was, therefore, to characterize the estrogen receptor subtypes that mediate the estrogen effects on LPS-activated IL-8 production by human peripheral blood monocytes. 17β-E2 and PPT attenuated the production of IL-8 by LPS-activated monocytes in a dose-dependent manner and these effects can be reversed by ICI182, 780. These results suggested a role of ERα on the attenuating effect of 17β-E2 on IL-8 production by human peripheral blood monocytes.

Key words: Estrogen receptor α, monocytes, interleukin 8.