Monocyte, macrophage and mast cell-derived PDGF control inflammation, tissue remodelling and autoimmunity in the pathophysiology of Graves’ ophthalmpathy

Abstract

Methods Expression of PDGF family members was determined by RQ-PCR, Western Blot and immunohistochemistry in GO and control orbital tissue. The effect of PDGF-AA, PDGFAB and PDGF-BB was determined on OF proliferation, IL-6 production and hyaluronan production. Moreover, the effect of PDGF on TSHR expression by OF and their subsequent susceptibility for Graves’ Disease immunoglobulins (GD-IgG) was determined. Results PDGF-A and PDGF-B chains were increased in GO orbital tissue. Immunohistochemistry revealed that this was due to production by monocytes, macrophages and mast cells. PDGF induced proliferation, cytokine production and hyaluronan production by OF. Furthermore, PDGF increased TSHR expression on OF and enhanced their susceptibility to TSH and GD-IgG with regard to IL-6 and hyaluronan production. These effects of TSH and GD-IgG were inhibited by a cAMP inhibitor and by a TSHR blocking antibody, suggesting involvement of TSHR signaling. Remarkably, PDGF-BB has the most pronounced effect on OF, while PDGF-AA showed the least effect. Conclusion