IL-6 mRNA and protein expression in human airway epithelial-like H292 cells
depends on rapid, but regulable IL-6 mRNA degradation. We restricted IL-6
mRNA degradation by partially inhibiting protein synthesis and studied the
IL-6 response, Despite partial inhibition of protein synthesis, IL-6 protei
n production was increased and prolonged. Furthermore, the threshold concen
tration for stimuli of IL-6 protein production decreased and the dose-respo
nse curves became steeper. Similar findings were obtained with primary huma
n bronchial epithelial cells. This exaggerated production may apply to othe
r proteins encoded by labile mRNA and is likely to occur during viral infec
tion of airway epithelial cells, (C) 2000 Academic Press.