Cytokine production by human colonic intraepithelial lymphocytes in controls and ulcerative colitis

Abstract

Using an ELISA technique, concentrations of γ-interferon and interleukin-2 were assayed in the supernatants of colonic intraepithelial lymphocytes cultured with or without phytohaemagglutinin (PHA). Intraepithelial lymphocytes produced low concentrations of γ-interferon and interleukin-2 when stimulated with PHA, but significantly more than when unstimulated (p < 0.05). There was no difference in production of these cytokines by IEL from control or inflammatory bowel disease. © 1994, Rapid Communications of Oxford Ltd.