Expression of cytokine receptors in cultured neuronal and glial cells.

We investigated mRNA expression of cytokine receptors in three different types of glial cells and two neuronal line cells by the RT-PCR method. Microglia expressed mRNA for receptors of IL-3, -4, -6, -7, GM-CSF, and M-CSF. Astrocytes were positive for receptors of IL-6, -7, GM-CSF, and M-CSF. Oligodendrocytes were positive for receptors of IL-3, -4, -7, GM-CSF, and M-CSF. Neuronal cells expressed receptors of IL-6 and GM-CSF with very low levels. This is the first demonstration of cytokine receptor mRNA expression in isolated glial and neuronal cells.