Danazol Suppresses the Production of Interleukin‐1β and Tumor Necrosis Factor by Human Monocytes

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Abstract
The effects of estradiol (E2), progesterone (P), and danazol on the production of interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) by OK‐432 (a streptococcal preparation)‐stimulated monocytes were examined. E2 and P at physiologic concentrations enhanced IL‐1β and TNF production by monocytes from donors with lower control levels (without steroids added) of IL‐1β and TNF. However, E2 and P at physiologic concentrations did not affect IL‐1β and TNF production by monocytes from donors with higher control levels of IL‐1β and TNF. Danazol inhibited IL‐1β and TNF production by monocytes in a dose‐dependent manner from not only donors with lower control levels of IL‐1β and TNF but also donors with higher control levels of IL‐1β and TNF. Danazol at a concentration of 10−6 M significantly suppressed IL‐1β and TNF production in the presence of E2 and/or P at concentrations giving peak responses of IL‐1β production. These findings suggest possible new mechanisms of action for danazol in the treatment of endometriosis and infertility associated with immune abnormalities.