Granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor

The granulocyte monocyte colony-stimulating factor, GM-CSF (granulocyte macrophage colony-stimulating factor), CAS number: 83869-56-1, is a glycoprotein encoded by the CSF2 gene located on chromosome 5 132.07-132.08.

GM-CSF is produced by T lymphocytes, mast cells, NK cells, endothelial cells, fibroblasts, mitogen-stimulated B cells and LPS-stimulated macrophages (Shi Y et al. 2006). GM-CSF induces the differentiation, proliferation, activation and maturation of macrophages and dendritic cells. These immune reactions are necessary for the induction of Th1 cell functions and for functions of cytotoxic T lymphocytes.

Under the influence of GM-CSF, monocytes differentiate into GM-CSF macrophages, which in turn mature into CD16-positive GM1 macrophages through the action of interferon gamma and LPS (see macrophage below). GM-CSF is part of the immune response to antigens and mitogens. Furthermore, the cytokine stimulates the growth of some epithelial cells and osteoclasts.

The hematopoietic and non-hematopoietic properties of GM-CSF induce pro-inflammatory and immunoregulatory responses that can be used therapeutically in autoimmune diseases (e.g., Crohn's disease - Daebriz J 2014-) and tumor diseases. GM-CSF deficits can lead to various immunological dysfunctions (Francisco-Cruz A et al. 2014). In multiple sclerosis, GM-CSF acts as an activating factor for the development of autoimmune inflammatory reactions. Among other things, it promotes the invasion of cytotoxic macrophages into the central nervous system.

Recombinantly produced GM-CSF are called sargramostim and molgramostim. The skin indication is for the treatment of neutropenia after radio- or chemotherapy or in neutropenic AIDS patients (Shi Y et al. 2006).

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