Suppression of Malignant Signaling and Behavior of Fibroblast-like Synoviocytes from Rheumatoid Arthritis by Interleukin 6 Receptor Mimotope

OBJECTIVE To observe whether the active immunization induced by interleukin-6 receptor (IL-6R) mimotope could bind to the IL-6R, inhibit the signalings and pathogenic behaviors of fibroblast-like synoviocytes from rheumatoid arthritis (RA-FLS). METHODS Wistar rats were immunized subcutaneously with IL-6R mimotope prepared chemically. The poly antibodies were purified from serum. Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay was performed to evaluate the titer of antisera. Western blot and immunofluorescence staining were performed to observe whether the antibodies purified could bind to IL-6R and induce their degradation. Western blot was performed to observe the inhibition of IL-6R. CCK-8 kit and TdT-mediated dUTP Nick-End Labeling were performed to evaluate the proliferation and apoptosis of RA-FLS. RESULTS Antibodies induced by IL-6R mimotope could bind to the IL-6R, induce their degradation, inhibit the signaling pathways and suppress the proliferation and anti-apoptosis of RA-FLS. CONCLUSION The IL-6R mimotope can be a potential agent for suppression of RA-FLS.