Mechanisms of interleukin-6 action in trauma-induced impairment of bone regeneration (C01)

• Subject Area: Orthopaedics, Traumatology, Reconstructive Surgery
• Term: from 2015 to 2022
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 251293561

This project studies the function of interleukin-6 (IL-6) in trauma-induced compromised bone fracture healing. We showed for the first time that IL-6 trans-signaling is non-essential for regular healing, but mediates trauma-induced compromised bone repair, as its selective inhibition led to significantly improved bone healing. By contrast, IL-6 classic signaling induces pro-regenerative effects. We will now further elucidate IL-6-related mechanisms in bone healing with a focus on neutrophils and mast cells, which act as the first line of cellular defense after bone injury and may be the effector and/or target cells of IL-6 signaling.

• DFG Programme: Collaborative Research Centres
• Subproject of: SFB 1149: Danger Response, Disturbance Factors and Regenerative Potential after Acute Trauma
• Applicant Institution: Universität Ulm
• Project Head: Professorin Dr. Anita Ignatius