Effect of DMSO on IL-1 alpha - (Feb/01/2008 )

Hi I have been using dmso as a solvent in cartilage explant culture along with IL-1 alpha. Dmso seems to be down-regulating the effect of the IL-1 alpha, does any one have any suggetions as to why?!

Hi,

DMSO has variable effects on numerous cell lines. These effects include differentiation and apoptosis. These processes can lead to up/down regulation of many genes. DMSO many also bind zinc ions which could result in many secondary effects.
For an interesting overview see:
Marks PA, Breslow R.
Abstract
Dimethyl sulfoxide to vorinostat: development of this histone deacetylase inhibitor as an anticancer drug.
Nat Biotechnol. 2007 Jan;25(1):84-90. Review.