Abstract
Keloids are characterized by a net accumulation of collagen. To date, the role of growth factors and various cytokines in the pathogenesis of these lesions has not been fully characterized. Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is an important immunoregulatory cytokine that has been implicated in a number of fibrotic autoimmune diseases such as scleroderma, interstitial nephritis, and pulmonary interstitial fibrosis. However, the role of IL-6 in the development of keloids has yet to be defined. This study demonstrates increased expression of the IL-6 gene in fibroblasts isolated from patients with keloids when compared with control fibroblasts using the ribonuclease protection assay. Subsequent detection of increased levels of IL-6 secretion by keloid fibroblasts is also demonstrated under unstimulated and stimulated conditions using serum and interferon γ (IFN-γ) (unstimulated: 0.3694 + 0.2499 pg/cell vs 0.0662 + 0.0786 pg/cell, P = 0.0137; serum: 1.066 + 0.513 pg/cell vs 0.233 + 0.231 pg/cell, P = 0.0027; serum and IFN-γ: 1.286 + 0.395 pg/cell vs 0.244 + 0.199 pg/cell, P < 0.0001). These results suggest that IL-6 may play a significant role in the pathogenesis of keloids.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
