Therapeutic potential of interleukin-1 receptor antagonist in inflammatory bowel disease

Abstract

The therapeutic role of interleukin (IL)-1 receptor antagonist, a potent inhibitor of IL-1, was investigated using peripheral blood mononuclear cells from patients with ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. Administration of IL-1 receptor antagonist inhibited IL-1β-augmented IL-1α and tumor necrosis factor-α production by mononuclear cells. Prednisolone caused a decrease in IL-1 receptor antagonist release, whereas sulfasalazine had no modulatory effect. Interestingly, IgG caused an increase in IL-1 receptor antagonist release. In conclusion, IL-1 receptor antagonist and related molecules may have therapeutic value.