Interleukin-1α (IL-1α), IL-1β, IL-1 receptor type I, IL-1 receptor antagonist, and TGF-β1 mRNAs in pediatric astrocytomas, ependymomas, and primitive neuroectodermal tumors

Interleukin-1α (IL-1α), IL-1β, interleukin-1 receptor type I (IL-1RI, signaling receptor), and IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra, endogenous inhibitor) are pivotal components of the IL-1 system. IL-1 and other cytokines induced by IL-1, such as TGF-β1, may participate in the growth of various tumor cells. In children, primary nervous system tumors represent the most common solid malignancy. We investigated the levels of IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-1RI, IL-1Ra, and TGF-β1 mRNAs in pediatric astrocytomas (n=19), ependymomas (n=13), and primitive neuroectodermal tumors (n=22) using sensitive and specific RNase protection assays. The data show a significant distinct cytokine mRNA profile among brain tumor types. Pilocytic, nonpilocytic, and anaplastic astrocytomas have significant increased levels of IL-1β, IL-1RI, and TGF-β1 mRNAs, but low levels of IL-1Ra mRNA; this may have implications for an IL-1β feedback system and IL-1β?TGF-β1 interactions in astrocytomas. Ependymomas show increased levels of IL-1α and IL-1β mRNAs associated with low levels of IL-1Ra mRNA; primitive neuroectodermal tumors do not exhibit increased levels of any cytokine component examined. The data also suggest that a dysregulation of the balance between stimulatory and inhibitory cytokines may be involved in the growth and development of brain tumors via autocrine/paracrine mechanisms.