Effects of dexamethasone on TNF-alpha-induced released of cytokines from purified human blood eosinophils

Abstract

Background: TNF-alpha is an important mediator in allergy also for its effects on eosinophils. Methods: The effect of dexamethasone on TNF-alpha induced eosinophils survival, degranulation (ECP), cytokines release (IL-8, GM-CSF) and adhesion to VCAM-I, ICAM-I and IgG coated wells (EPO release) were evaluated. Results: The drug inhibited IL-8 and GM-CSF production, but not viability, degranulation or adhesion in human peripheral blood eosinophils. Conclusion: These results indicate that part of the activity of glucocorticosteroids on eosinophils may be mediated by their ability to inhibit cytokine secretion that in turn is important for the perpetuation of the allergic inflammation. © 2005 Uings et al; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.