IFN-τ Displays Anti-Inflammatory Effects on Staphylococcus aureus Endometritis via Inhibiting the Activation of the NF-κB and MAPK Pathways in Mice

Abstract EN

The aim of the present study was to determine the anti-inflammatory effect of IFN-τ on endometritis using a mouse model of S.

aureus-induced endometritis and to elucidate the mechanism of action underlying these effects.

In the present study, the effect of IFN-τ on S.

aureus growth was monitored by turbidimeter at 600 nm.

IFN-τ did not affect S.

aureus growth.

The histopathological changes indicated that IFN-τ had a protective effect on uterus tissues with S.

aureus infection.

The ELISA and qPCR results showed the production of the proinflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 was decreased with IFN-τ treatment.

In contrast, the level of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 was increased.

We further studied the signaling pathway associated with these observations, and the qPCR results showed that the expression of TLR2 was repressed by IFN-τ.

Furthermore, the western blotting results showed the phosphorylation of IκB, NF-κB p65, and MAPKs (p38, JNK, and ERK) was inhibited by IFN-τ treatment.

The results suggested that IFN-τ may be a potential drug for the treatment of uterine infection due to S.

aureus or other infectious inflammatory diseases.