The IL-12p70/IL-10 interplay is differentially regulated by free heme and hemozoin in murine bone-marrow-derived macrophages.

The outcome of malarial anemia is determined by a complex interplay between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines, its severity associated with accumulation of hemozoin (Hz) in macrophages, elevated IL-10 responses and impaired IL-12 production. Although free heme contributes to malarial anemia by inducing oxidative damage of red blood cells (RBCs) and enhancing their clearance by phagocytes, its impact on IL-12/IL-10 interactions has not been fully characterized. Herein, the effect of hemin (HE) on IL-12 and IL-10 responses was studied in murine bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDM) and compared with synthetic Hz.