EXPRESSION OF LIPOCORTINS IN HUMAN BRONCHIAL EPITHELIAL-CELLS - EFFECTS OF IL-1-BETA, TNF-ALPHA, LPS AND DEXAMETHASONE

In this study, we investigated the expression of lipocortin I and II ( annexin I and II) in the human bronchial epithelium, both in vivo and in vitro. A clear expression of lipocortin I and II protein was found in the epithelium in sections of bronchial tissue, In cultured human b ronchial epithelial cells we demonstrated the expression of lipocortin I and II mRNA and protein using Northern blotting, FACScan analysis a nd ELISA. No induction of lipocortin I or II mRNA or protein was obser ved after incubation with dexamethasone, Stimulation of bronchial epit helial cells with IL-1 beta, TNF-alpha or LPS for 24 h did not affect the lipocortin I or II mRNA or protein expression, although PGE(2) and 6-keto-PGF(1 alpha) production was significantly increased. This IL-1 beta- and LPS-mediated increase in eicosanoids could be reduced by de xamethasone, but was not accompanied by an increase in lipocortin I or II expression, In human bronchial epithelial cells this particular gl ucocorticoid action is not mediated through lipocortin I or II: induct ion.