Interleukin-6 Induces Early Gamma Interferon Production in the Infected Lung but Is Not Required for Generation of Specific Immunity toMycobacterium tuberculosisInfection

• DOI: 10.1128/iai.68.6.3322-3326.2000
• Publication Date: 2002-07-27T10:01:19Z
• Authors: Bernadette M. Sau...; Anthony A. Frank; Ian M. Orme; Andrea M. Cooper
• Keywords: Cellular immunity

ABSTRACT Immunity to Mycobacterium tuberculosis is dependent upon the generation of a protective gamma interferon (IFN-γ)-producing T-cell response. Recent studies have suggested that interleukin-6 (IL-6) required for induction response and IL-4 may suppress IFN-γ. To evaluate role cytokines IL-6 in pulmonary immunity M. , knockout mice were infected with via aerosol. The absence led an early increase bacterial load concurrent delay However, able contain control growth developed memory secondary infection. This demonstrates while involved stimulating IFN-γ production, it not essential development against . In contrast, resulted increased this had no significant effect growth.