Expression of sarcolectin in the human pituitary gland and amniotic fluid.

Sarcolectin (SCL) is a 55 kDa protein cross-reacting with a cytokeratin 7 monomer found in placental blood, sarcomas and various tissues. It blocks the synthesis of interferon-dependent secondary proteins, induces cell DNA activation and sensitizes cells to viral infection. SCL is a potent promoter of tissue growth.

Host factor pleiotrophin induces human immunodeficiency virus type 1 replication associated with inflammatory cytokine expression.

Pleiotrophin (PTN) is a polypeptide that belongs to a family of heparin-binding growth factors; it displays mitogenic activity for a wide variety of cells. In a previous study, we reported that PTN induces the stimulation of expression of inflammatory cytokines, including tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha), interleukin (IL)-1beta and IL-6, in quiescent human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) through B-lymphocyte binding. These results emphasize the importance of PTN in the regulation of inflammatory processes.

Enhanced endogenous type I interferon cell-driven survival and inhibition of spontaneous apoptosis by Riluzole.

Highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), although effective in improving the survival of HIV-1-infected individuals, has not been able to reconstitute the adaptive immune response. We have described the use of novel chemical agents to restore T-cell survival/proliferation by inducing cytokine production. Due to its cationic amphiphilic structure, these molecules appear to enhance immune restoration.

Pleiotrophin induces expression of inflammatory cytokines in peripheral blood mononuclear cells.

Pleiotrophin (PTN) is a polypeptide that belongs to a family of heparin-binding growth factor, which displays mitogenic activity for a wide variety of cells. Since PTN induces the proliferation of immune cells the mechanism of action was investigated. In the present study, we show for the first time that PTN induces the expression of inflammatory cytokines including TNF-alpha, IL-1beta and IL-6 in quiescent human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC).