Pathogen-Induced Interleukin-1β Processing and Secretion Is Regulated by a Biphasic Redox Response

In this study, we show that IL-1 beta processing and secretion induced by pathogen-associated molecular pattern (PAMP) molecules in human monocytes is regulated by a biphasic redox event including a prompt oxidative stress and a delayed antioxidant response. Namely, PAMPs induce an early generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) followed by increase of intracellular thioredoxin and release of reduced cysteine: this antioxidant phase is paralleled by secretion of mature IL-1 beta. ROS production and antioxidant response are both required, because either inhibitors of NADPH oxidase and of thioredoxin reductase impair IL-1 beta secretion. These inhibitors also hinder cysteine release and consequently prevent reduction of the extracellular medium: addition of exogenous reducing agents restores IL-1 beta secretion. Not only silencing of thioredoxin, but also of the ROS scavenger superoxide dismutase 1 results in inhibition of IL-1 beta secretion. Thus, PAMP-induced ROS trigger an antioxidant response involving intracellular redox enzymes and release of cysteine, ultimately required for IL-1 beta processing and secretion. The Journal of Immunology, 2009, 183: 1456-1462.