Interleukin 11 reduces apoptosis in UVB-irradiated mouse skin.

BACKGROUND

UVB radiation, the major cause of skin cancer, causes apoptosis in the skin, characterized by the appearance of 'sunburn cells'. Interleukin 11 (IL-11) has been shown to protect cells in the gastrointestinal system from chemotherapy and radiation-induced death.

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether exogenous IL-11 has any effect on the UVB-induced apoptosis of cutaneous tissues.

METHODS

Mice were injected with IL-11 or vehicle control prior to irradiation, and TUNEL assays were performed on paraffin-embedded tissue sections at various times after irradiation.

RESULTS

Exogenous IL-11 protects epidermal keratinocytes, epithelial cells of the hair follicles inflammatory cells and fibroblasts in the dermis from UVB-induced apoptotic death.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that IL-11 may play a role in the general homeostasis of the skin.