IL-6 production of C2C12 cells is enhanced in the presence of macrophages and pravastatin

Gen Physiol Biophys. 2021 Jul;40(4):307-315. doi: 10.4149/gpb_2021017.

Abstract

Skeletal muscle secrets several bioactive molecules known as myokines. Interleukin-6 (IL-6) has been described as a myokine secreted in response to skeletal muscle injury as well as to macrophage invasion in inflammation. To our knowledge no connection between macrophages and skeletal muscle regarding IL-6 secretion has been described so far. Here we report that co-culturing of C2C12 cells with RAW macrophages enhances IL-6 secretion of the cells cultured together. However, this is not seen in cross-feeding experiments, where culture medium of RAW macrophage culture is used as the culture medium of C2C12 cells or vice versa. Pravastatin, known to induce myopathy, also stimulates IL-6 production in monocultured C2C12 cells and elevates IL-6 concentration in the culture medium of the co-cultures. These results indicate an intricate interaction between skeletal muscle and macrophages in inflammation related to IL-6 production.

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Inflammation
  • Interleukin-6*
  • Macrophages
  • Muscle, Skeletal
  • Pravastatin* / pharmacology

Substances

  • Interleukin-6
  • Pravastatin