IL-1β and IL-3-like activity in preterm infants

Abstract

SUMMARY The capacity of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) of pretert ntieonaies to release IL-1β and IL-3-like activity (IL-3-LA) has been investigaied. In the present study it was found that this capacity is significantly lower than that of their mothers and or eontrol adults. In addition, the results showed that preterm serum has a lower stitnulatory effect on IL-1β production and an inhibitory effect on IL-3-LA secretion by PBMC of adult controls, in comparison with maternal and adull sera. These findings suggest an additional Teedback mechanism for control of hacmatopoiesis in premature neonates. It is possible that the lower production of IL-1β and IL-3-VLA may be involved in the increased susceptibility to infections of preterm newboms.