Grepafloxacin inhibits tumor necrosis factor-alpha-induced interleukin-8 expression in human airway epithelial cells

We examined the effect of grepafloxacin (GPFX), a new fluoroquinolone antim icrobial agent, on interleukin-8 (IL-8) expression in tumor necrosis factor -alpha (TNF-alpha)-stimulated human airway epithelial cells (AEC). GPFX inh ibited IL-8 protein production as well as mRNA expression in a concentratio n-dependent manner (2.5 - 25 mu g/ml), but the inhibition of IL-8 expressio n by corresponding concentrations of GPFX to serum and airway lining fluids was not complete. We discuss the modulatory effect of GPFX on IL-8 product ion in the context of its efficacy on controlling chronic airway inflammato ry diseases. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Inc.