Danazol Suppresses the Production of Interleukin‐1β and Tumor Necrosis Factor by Human Monocytes

Abstract

ABSTRACT: The effects of estradiol (E 2 ), progesterone (P), and danazol on the production of interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) by OK‐432 (a streptococcal preparation)‐stimulated monocytes were examined. E 2 and P at physiologic concentrations enhanced IL‐1β and TNF production by monocytes from donors with lower control levels (without steroids added) of IL‐1β and TNF. However, E 2 and P at physiologic concentrations did not affect IL‐1β and TNF production by monocytes from donors with higher control levels of IL‐1β and TNF. Danazol inhibited IL‐1β and TNF production by monocytes in a dose‐dependent manner from not only donors with lower control levels of IL‐1β and TNF but also donors with higher control levels of IL‐1β and TNF. Danazol at a concentration of 10 −6 M significantly suppressed IL‐1β and TNF production in the presence of E 2 and/or P at concentrations giving peak responses of IL‐1β production. These findings suggest possible new mechanisms of action for danazol in the treatment of endometriosis and infertility associated with immune abnormalities.