Hyperactivation of the immune system can lead to tissue destruction and auto-immunity. Therefore, the amplitude and duration of immune responses after antigenic and cytokine signaling are regulated in a feedback manner.

So-called “Suppressors of Cytokine Signaling (SOCS)” are important molecular players in this negative feedback regulation. 7 members of the SOCS molecular family have been described so-far. The SOCS family members 1 and 3 are of particular importance, since they are involved in adaptive and innate immune responses.

SOCS-1 and -3 are induced by LPS stimulation via the Toll-like Receptor-4 (TLR-4). While SOCS-1 directly targets the downstream signaling molecules of TLR4, SOCS-3 regulates the secondary effects of many LPS-induced cytokines. E.g. IL-1R signalling pathways are negatively regulated by SOCS-3.

In adaptive immune responses SOCS-1 and -3 play a role in the regulation of T cell activation, proliferation and diferentiation.
Recently, SOCS molecules were found to be central elements in the pharmacodynamics of the immuno-modulatory compound simvastatin and probiotic lactobacilli.

FOCUS Immunology is prepared to provide state-of-the-art services for pharmacodynamic (PD) studies for immunomodulatory compounds under GLP conditions. This includes studies on the regulation of intra- and extracellular mediators of inflammationand immunity.

If you are interested in learning more about FOCUS Immunology’s experience and offers or if you want to discuss your specific experimental needs, please feel free to contact Dr. Eddy Bruyns, Head of FOCUS Immunology Laboratory via e-mail eddy.bruyns@focus-cdd.com or via telephone +49 6221 64935124.

Source
Dimitriou et al.
Putting out the fire: coordinated suppression of the innate and adaptive immune systems by SOCS1 and SOCS3 proteins
Immunological reviews 2008, Vol. 224: 265-283

More information on SOCS1: Wikipedia on SOCS1
More information on SOCS3: Wikipedia on SOCS3