Abstract
This chapter provides an overview of Interleukin 6 (IL-6). Human IL-6 is a single-chain protein containing N- and O-linked glycosylations and phosphorylated serine residues. The molecular mass of IL-6 ranges between 21 and 28 kDa, depending on the origin tissue. The molecular structure of mouse IL-6 reveals the absence of N-glycosylation sites; however, it reveals several potential O-glycosylation sites, although glycosylation is unnecessary for biological activity. There is considerable homology between human and mouse IL-6, and the fact that several regions of amino acid sequences are identical probably accounts for their cross-reactivity in immunological and biological activities. IL-6 stimulates the release of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) in the conscious, freely moving rat, and the in vitro release of prolactin, growth hormone, and the gonadotropins. Plasma IL-6 levels are not detectable under basal physiological conditions; however, they are easily measured during inflammatory or endotoxic stress. The chapter also describes several methods used for the quantitation of IL-6.
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