Studying whether C-C Motif Chemokine Ligand 11 (CCL11) Induces Reactive Oxygen Species in Microglial Brain Macrophages

Neurodegenerative disease is a process in which cells within the nervous system are damaged or die due to conditions in the brain that influence their well-being. Elevated levels of CCL11, an age-related chemokine, have been linked to neurodegenerative disease. Along with CCL11, there is also the increased observance of excess reactive oxygen species (ROS); which are free radicals that damage cellular DNA, RNA, and proteins, leading to the death of cells. This study investigates the impact that CCL11 has in the production of ROS in brain macrophages, known as microglia. Along this line, we hypothesize that CCL11 would activate microglia and increase extracellular ROS in the brain. Leading to the damage of the neuronal tissues and the development of neurodegenerative diseases, such as dementia. To study this hypothesis, we used in vitro cell culture techniques with the microglial cell line, SIM-A9. Results indicate a significant increase in the production of both intracellular and extracellular H2O2, the primary ROS investigated. Furthermore, a potential underlying mechanism that may regulate the production of ROS by CCL11 in microglia was proposed. Understanding the mechanisms that underlie CCL11-mediated ROS production in microglial cells, may provide valuable insight into the pathogenesis of many neurodegenerative disorders. Leading to the development and use of potential therapeutic strategies.