Neuronal cell death responsible for dementia symptoms in Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients is caused by the phagocytosis of amyloid-� (A�) plaques by microglia that, when activated, release cytokines that induce neurodegeneration. Previous research has suggested interleukin-1� (IL-1�) and interleukin-18 (IL-18) may be the cytokines involved. To determine their role, we used an in vitro co-culture of neurons and wild type (WT) microglia. We hypothesized that both IL-1� and IL-18 are involved in the induction of neuron death. The cell cultures were treated with varying concentrations of IL-1� and IL-18. A cell count was conducted to assess the degree of neuron death produced. In the IL-1�, IL-18, and IL-1� and IL-18 trials, death was observed only in the co-culture. In conclusion, IL-1� and IL-18 indirectly induce neuron death through their activity on microglia. Further study in this area could provide valuable information for pharmaceutical intervention in the progression of AD.

IL-1β and IL-18 involvement in neuron death

245th National Meeting (2013)

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