GP130-RELATED CYTOKINES AND THEIR RECEPTORS IN THE PITUITARY

gp130-Related cytokines such as interleukin-6 and leukemia-inhibitory factor (LIF) act on the adenohypophysis in a paracrine manner, affecti ng both ifs differentiation and the function of specific cell types, n otably the proopiomelanocortin (POMC) cells. They act on POMC cells in synergism with corticotrophin-releasing hormone, inducing ACTH secret ion. gp130-Related cytokines as well as their receptors are expressed in the pituitary. LIF knockout mice show reduced stress-induced ACTH s ecretion, which can be restored by LIF replacement, suggesting a physi ologic role for LIF. (C) 1998, Elsevier Science Inc.