Effect of Recombinant Human Growth Hormone Administration on the Inflammatory Response in Endotoxemic Mice

Abstract

Administration of recombinant human Growth Hormone (rhGH) in critically ill patients has demonstrated adverse effects including a significantly increased mortality. Studies suggest, that this is due to an alteration in the inflammatory response. The aim of the present study was to determine, if the administration of rhGH will affect the inflammatory response of endotoxemic mice. Male C57/BL/6 mice received an intraperitoneal injection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS, 5 mg/kg body weight). Mice were randomized to receive saline injections (controls, n n=8) or rhGH intramuscular (5 mg/kg body weight, n=8). On day 5, serum was collected and IL-1beta, IL-2, IL-4, IL-5, IL-10, GM-CSF, IFN-gamma, TNF, IL-1alpha, IL-3, IL-6, IL-12p40, IL-12p70, IL-17, G-CSF, KC, MIP-1, and RANTES. Cytokines were measured by a multiplex assay (Bioplex-Multiarray system). Data were analyzed using t-test, significance was accepted at p<0.05. There was no difference in mortality between groups. Serum concentrations of IL-1beta, IL-2, IL-4, IL-5, IL-10, IL-1alpha, IL-12p40,...