Llama-derived nanobodies can act as P2X7 antagonists in vitro and in vivo

used to measure BAFF RNA at 6 h. Beta-actin was used as the reference housekeeping gene. BAFF protein in the culture supernatants was measured by ELISA at 96 h. All interferons upregulated BAFF expression (RNA & protein); however, IFN-beta was the most potent (IFN-beta N IFN-alpha N IFN-gamma). We also tested various combinations of cytokines to assess synergistic or antagonistic effects on BAFF expression. TNF-alpha and IL-10 inhibited BAFF expression by IFN-beta or IFN-alpha-stimulated cells. TNF-alpha enhanced BAFF expression by IFN-gamma-stimulated cells. Similar results were obtained with primary cultures of human peripheral blood monocytes. This study was supported by the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA).