Magnesium sulfate inhibits inflammation through P2X7 receptors in human umbilical vein endothelial cells.

BACKGROUND

Magnesium sulfate (MgSO) is utilized for fetal neuroprotection in preterm birth but its mechanism of action is still poorly understood. P2X7 receptor (P2X7R) is required for secretion of IL-1β, and can be blocked by divalent cations such as magnesium (Mg) and its own antagonist, Brilliant Blue G (BBG). We sought to determine whether during inflammation MgSO can block endothelial IL-1β secretion, using an in-vitro model.

METHODS

Human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) cultures were treated with varying doses of LPS, 2'(3)-Ο-(4-Benzoylbenzoyl) adenosine-5'-triphosphate (BzATP), BBG and MgSO for 3- or 24 h. We determined cell cytotoxicity, apoptosis, IL-1β mRNA expression, IL-1β production and secretion and P2X7R expression on HUVECs.

RESULTS

We demonstrated that MgSO is efficacious in blocking IL-1β-mediated-inflammation in HUVECs, at both the initiation and propagation phases of inflammation. MgSO exerts these anti-inflammatory effects via downregulation of P2X7Rs on HUVECs.

CONCLUSION

LPS-exposure increases IL-1β production and secretion in HUVECs, which is further intensified by P2X7R agonist, BzATP while MgSO inhibits IL-1β in both presence and absence of BzATP. This effect is similar to the results of P2X7R antagonist, BBG, suggesting that the anti-inflammatory effects of MgSO is through P2X7R.