It is well established that steroidogenesis in the adrenal cortex is regulated by extraadrenal factors, such as ACTH and angiotensin II. However, over the last years, it has become increasingly clear that paracrine and autocrine mechanisms are also important for steroid synthesis in the adrenal gland. The current study was designed to analyze whether the pleiotropic cytokine leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) and/or its receptor (LIF-R) are expressed in the normal human adrenal cortex, and whether they may play a role in regulating steroidogenesis. Using LIF- and LIF-R-specific primers, we show by RT-PCR that both mRNAs are expressed in this tissue, as well as in the NCI-H295 adrenal carcinoma cell line. The correct sequences of the PCR products were verified by restriction enzyme analysis and DNA sequencing. Immunohistochemistry, employing specific antibodies against LIF and LIF-R, reveals expression of both proteins in the normal human adrenal cortex. Finally, we show that LIF can significantly enhance basal and ACTH-induced production of cortisol and aldosterone in NCI-H295 cells. In summary, we show for the first time that LIF and its receptor are expressed in the normal human adrenal cortex. Our stimulation experiments indicate that the intraadrenal LIF/LIF-R system may participate in regulating adrenal steroidogenesis.
