LPS induces GROa chemokine production via NF-jB in oral fibroblasts

Objective and design Chemotaxis of neutrophils from blood to the inflammation process plays an important role in development of periodontal inflammation. The novel chemokine GROa, also named CXCL1, is a strong chemoattractant for neutrophils. Data on production and regulation of GROa by oral fibroblasts have not previously been presented. Materials and methods GROa mRNA and protein levels were determined in human periodontal ligament cells and mouse gingival fibroblasts by quantitative real-time PCR and ELISA. Results We disclose that both human periodontal ligament cells and mouse gingival fibroblasts produce GROa in response to LPS stimulation. Stimulation with LPS for 24 h increased both mRNA for GROa and GROa protein. The steroid hormone estrogen had no effect on LPS-induced GROa mRNA expression. Treatment with the glucocorticoid dexamethasone attenuated LPS-induced GROa production, and the NF-jB blocker MG 132 fully prevented LPS-induced GROa. Conclusions Oral fibroblasts respond to LPS stimulation by increasing GROa production via the transcription factor NF-jB, suggesting that this mechanism may be involved in development of periodontal inflammation.