Quantification of cytokine secretion by mononuclear cells

Introduction

Cytokines are secreted by the effector cells of the immune system and play a major role in most chronic inflammatory diseases.

Quantification of cytokine is therefore a relevant biological target in the search for anti-inflammatory agents.

Principle

The determination of cytokines secreted by human mononuclear cells can be performed by ELISA or HTRF technology.

1. ELISA assay

The proteins to be assayed are bounded to a capture antibody then are detected by a biotin-streptavidin complex coupled to peroxidase, which in the presence of its substrate allows the development of a colorimetric reaction quantified by absorbance measurement at 450 nm.

The measured absorbance is proportional to the concentration of the cytokine measured.

2. HTRF assay  (CISBIO)

Two fluorophores partners donor (europium cryptate) / acceptor (XL665) are linked respectively to an antibody specific to the protein to be assayed.

The time-resolved fluorescence energy transfer (TR-FRET) between the fluorophores is proportional to the concentration of the assayed cytokine present in the sample.

This assay is homogeneous and requires only small amounts of protein.

Protocol

TREATMENT
Format24 or 96 wells 
Cellular modelMononuclear cells isolated from human peripheral blood
StimulationLPS or PHA   
Reference moleculeDexamethasone  
Incubation24H at 37°C under 5% CO
REVELATION
 ELISA ASSAYHTRF ASSAY
Format96 wells384 wells
DetectionAbsorbance measurement at 450 nm Excitation wavelength : 337 nm
Emission wavelength 1 : 615 nm (donor fluorophore emission)

Emission wavelength 2: 665 nm (acceptor fluorophore emission)

Notes :

  • Allow 50 µL at 10 mM or 3 mg of sample to test 5 concentrations (3 points/concentration)
  • Cell viability is assessed in parallel

Recommendation :

  • Ensure solubility of sample in a solvent compatible with cell culture

Inhibition of TNF alpha secretion in the presence of Dexamethasone

Assays for TNF alpha, IL1 beta, IL-6 and IL-8 have been developed by ELISA.

TNF alpha, IL1 beta, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10 and INF gamma assays have been developed by HTRF.

Other cytokines can be tested on request.