Endothelin production by amnion and its regulation by cytokines.

Cells derived from human amnion, an avascular tissue, produced significant amounts of endothelin 1 and 2, although the rate of biosynthesis was approximately one tenth of that of human umbilical vein endothelial cells. Endothelin 1 and 2 was not produced in measurable amounts by cells derived from chorion laeve or decidua. Production of endothelin 1 and 2 by amnion cells was increased by treatment with the cytokines interleukin-1 beta, tumor necrosis factor, and interleukin-6. The biosynthesis of endothelin 1 and 2 by an avascular tissue is suggestive of a wider role for endothelins than has been recognized.