Alcohol and cytokine networks.
Experimental and clinical data pertaining to alcohol (ethanol, EtOH) interference with cytokine networks are analyzed from the viewpoint of their importance for understanding the deleterious effects of EtOH on various functions. The data are grouped and analysed according to several major directions that have emerged in the last decade since the research on EtOH interference with cytokine networks started. These are: cytokine secretion, including the effects of the drug on in vivo cytokine levels and on in vitro cytokine secretion by various cells; cytokine-receptor interaction; intracellular fate of cytokines; and cellular responses to cytokines. Correspondingly, the data are presented in four tables. Attention is paid to the fact that the effects of EtOH on various aspects of cytokine biology (e.g., secretion by various cells) are diversified. Contradictory data have been reported but the cause for discrepancy is poorly understood. EtOH effects vary with the cytokine studied, the method of EtOH administration (i.e., acute or chronic), the species used, or with other experimental conditions. It is important to note, however, that the vast majority of experimental and clinical data show that EtOH interferes with cytokine networks and that research on such interference may lead to important steps in understanding the mechanisms of action of EtOH. An attempt is made herein to select aspects of cytokine biology, as affected by EtOH, that have been studied to a lesser extent, thus calling for more research efforts in those areas.
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University of Kentucky, Chandler Medical Center, College of Medicine, Department of Medicine, Gastroenterology, Lexington 40536, USA.
D000818:Animals; D016207:Cytokines / Q000378:metabolism; D000431:Ethanol / Q000494:pharmacology; D006801:Humans; D018121:Receptors, Cytokine / Q000187:drug effects
D016207:Cytokines; D018121:Receptors, Cytokine; D000431:Ethanol