The role of GM-CSF in infection.
GM-CSF is a hemopoietic growth factor with substantial effects on the proliferation of neutrophils, eosinophils and monocytes/macrophages. Its physiologic role in infection is still poorly understood. The gene for GM-CSF is constitutively transcribed in cells substantial for antiinfectious response. Various cells are activated and induced by TNF and IL-1 to synthesize GM-CSF. No systemic GM-CSF levels can be detected in patients with infection. It is likely that GM-CSF plays its physiological role in the immediate vicinity of the cells by which it is secreted. GM-CSF functionally activates neutrophils, monocytes/macrophages and eosinophils. It may augment T-cell proliferation and function. GM-CSF is effective in mice infected with Staphylococcus aureus or Salmonella typhimurium. Its effect in infectious disease in man should be explored.
Freund
M
M
Abt. Hämatologie und Onkologie, Medizinische Hochschule Hannover, Germany.
Kleine
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HD
D000818:Animals; D001424:Bacterial Infections / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000276:immunology*; D016207:Cytokines / Q000096:biosynthesis; D016178:Granulocyte-Macrophage Colony-Stimulating Factor / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000502:physiology* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D007962:Leukocytes / Q000187:drug effects / Q000502:physiology; D008264:Macrophages / Q000187:drug effects / Q000502:physiology; D051379:Mice
D016207:Cytokines; D016178:Granulocyte-Macrophage Colony-Stimulating Factor