Analysis Tissue Expression of IFN-γ in IL-12 and/or IL-18 Gene Ablated Naïve Mice

Interleukin 12 (IL-12) and/or interleukin 18 (IL-18) gene ablated mice were applied for the investigation of the tissue expression of interferon γ (IFN-γ). For IL-12, IL-18, IL-12/18 and wt mice, reproductive performance were recorded and IFN-γ concentrations in heart, lung, liver, spleen, kidney and serum were quantified by ELISA. There were no significant differences of IFN-γ in heart, lung and kidney between 4 strains although control group was higher. It was observed that for IL-12 mice, compared with other 3 groups, IFN-γ in liver and spleen were decreased (p < 0.05) and reproductive performance appeared to be impaired. Serum IFN-γ level of IL-12/18 mice was significantly higher (p < 0.05). It was showed that IFN-γ productions under the normal condition were independent upon IL-12 and IL-18, its expressions in various tissues were different, and optimal IFN-γ is necessary for the normal growth and development of mammals. This study is helpful for clinical cytokines therapy. Cellular & Molecular Immunology. 2005;2(1):68-72.