Dibutyltin Disrupts Glucocorticoid Receptor Function and Impairs Glucocorticoid-Induced Suppression of Cytokine Production
2008

Dibutyltin Disrupts Glucocorticoid Receptor Function

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Gumy Christel, Chandsawangbhuwana Charlie, Dzyakanchuk Anna A., Kratschmar Denise V., Baker Michael E., Odermatt Alex

Primary Institution: University of Basel

Hypothesis

DBT affects one or more glucocorticoid responses because this steroid has important actions on the immune system.

Conclusion

DBT inhibits ligand binding to GR and subsequent activation of the receptor, potentially disturbing metabolic functions and immune system modulation.

Supporting Evidence

  • DBT inhibits ligand binding to GR and its transcriptional activity.
  • DBT disrupts glucocorticoid-induced expression of key metabolic enzymes.
  • DBT abrogates the glucocorticoid-mediated suppression of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
  • DBT alters the conformation of the glucocorticoid receptor, affecting its function.

Takeaway

Dibutyltin, a chemical found in some plastics, can stop a key part of the immune system from working properly, which might make people more sick.

Methodology

The study used HEK-293 cells, rat H4IIE hepatoma cells, and human macrophages to investigate the effects of DBT on GR function through ligand binding assays and gene expression analysis.

Limitations

The study primarily focused on in vitro models, which may not fully replicate in vivo conditions.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.05

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pone.0003545

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