G protein-coupled signal transduction pathways for interleukin-8

Interleukin-8 (IL-8) is one of the major mediators of the inflammatory response. The pathways by which IL-8 activates inositide-specific phospholipase C (PLC) were investigated by co-expression of different components of the guanosine triphosphate binding protein (G protein) pathway in COS-7 cells. Two distinct IL-8 receptors reconstituted ligand-dependent activation of endogenous PLC when transfected together with the G protein α subunits Gα 14, Gα 15, or Gα 16. However, reconstitution was not observed with cells that overexpressed Gα q or Gα 11. Furthermore, IL-8 receptors interacted with endogenous pertussis toxin-sensitive G proteins or with the recombinant G protein Gi to release free βγ subunits that could then specifically activate the β2 isoform of PLC. These findings suggest that IL-8 acts through signal-transducing pathways that are limited to specific heterotrimeric G proteins and effectors. These may provide suitable targets for the development of anti-inflammatory agents