The effect of interleukin-1 beta and interleukin-4 on the expression of prostaglandin receptors EP1 and EP3 in amnion WISH cells.

PROBLEM

Although prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) is believed to modulate biochemical and immunological events leading to parturition, the role of prostaglandin E receptors during labor has not been investigated.

METHOD OF STUDY

Amnion WISH cells were incubated in media containing increasing concentrations of either interleukin-1 beta (IL-1 beta) or IL-4. Increased EP1 and EP3 protein expression was determined by Western blot analysis with peptide-specific antibodies. Concomitant measurements of culture media PGE2 were made by an enzyme immunoassay.

RESULTS

Incubation of WISH cells with IL-1 beta or IL-4 caused a two- to three-fold increase in EP1 protein levels. IL-1 beta and IL-4 also caused six- and two-fold increases, respectively, in culture fluid PGE2 concentrations. IL-1 beta or IL-4 had no effect on EP3 protein levels.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on these results, it is proposed that IL-1 beta and IL-4 may be involved in the initiation and promotion of labor by inducing EP1 levels and PGE2 production in amnion.