Stimulatory effects of dibutyryl cyclic adenosine monophosphate on cytokine production by keratinocytes and fibroblasts

Background Clinical studies have shown that ointment containing dibutyryl c yclic adenosine monophosphate (DBcAMP) promotes wound healing. Objectives We aimed to elucidate the mechanisms of the beneficial effect of DBcAMP in wound healing. Methods An investigation was made of the effects of DBcAMP on ill vitro cyt okine release from cultured keratinocytes and fibroblasts derived from norm al human skin. Results DBcAMP stimulated keratinocyte proliferation through increased inte rleukin (IL)-6 production by fibroblasts, and transiently enhanced producti on of transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta 1 by fibroblasts at an early st age of incubation. DBcAMP also stimulated fibroblast proliferation, resulti ng in further increases in IL-6 and TGF-beta 1. Conclusions We conclude that this series of stimulative actions on cytokine secretion, together with the facilitation of cell proliferation, contribut e to the effects of DBcAMP on the healing of skin ulcers.