[Current topics in the regulation of prostanoids--2. The interaction with cytokines and nitric oxide].

Cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 is induced by proinflammatory cytokines such as interleukin (IL)-1 beta, cytokines produced from helper T cell subpopulation Th 1, such as interferon-gamma and tumor necrosis factor-beta. Cytokines produced by the T cell such as IL-4, IL-10, and IL-13 down-regulate induction of COX-2. The novel MAP kinase pathway, JNK and/or p 38, are important intracellular signaling pathways for induction of COX-2. The increased production of prostaglandin E2 by upregulation of COX-2 increases IL-6 production. By utilizing a COX-2 blocker, it is possible to decrease IL-6 production via reduction of prostanoid production, thereby attenuating the systemic inflammatory response. Nitric oxide (NO) and prostanoids are also known to interact and regulate each other. It is important to note the interactions between prostanoids and cytokines or other inflammatory mediators such as NO in understanding the mechanism of the anti-inflammatory effects of prostanoid regulation.