Comparing the Effects of Anti-IL-6 and Anti-TNF-α Antibodies on Tuberculosis in Mice
Author Information
Author(s): Okada Masaji, Kita Yoko, Kanamaru Noriko, Hashimoto Satomi, Uchiyama Yasushi, Mihara Masahiko, Inoue Yoshikazu, Ohsugi Yoshiyuki, Kishimoto Tadamitsu, Sakatani Mitsunori
Primary Institution: National Hospital Organization Kinki-Chuo Chest Medical Center
Hypothesis
Does IL-6 blockade promote the progression of Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection less than TNF-α blockade in mice?
Conclusion
IL-6R blockade promotes the progression of TB infection in mice far less than TNF-α blockade.
Supporting Evidence
- All anti-IL-6R Ab-treated mice survived until sacrificed, while anti-TNF-α Ab-treated mice all died between 120 and 181 days.
- Anti-IL-6R Ab-treated mice showed no significant differences in TB CFU in organs compared to controls.
- Anti-TNF-α Ab-treated mice exhibited increased TB CFU and greater progression of histopathological findings.
Takeaway
This study found that blocking IL-6 in mice doesn't make tuberculosis worse as much as blocking TNF-α does, which is good news for patients using IL-6 blockers.
Methodology
Mice were infected with TB and treated with antibodies; their survival and TB progression were monitored.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the use of specific mouse strains and controlled laboratory conditions.
Limitations
The study was conducted in mice, which may not fully represent human responses.
Participant Demographics
Female BALB/c and DBA/1 mice, aged 8 to 10 weeks.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.01
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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