IL-6 induces PI 3-kinase and nitric oxide-dependent protection and preserves mitochondrial function in cardiomyocytes

Objective: Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is a pro-inflammatory cytokine which is a prognostic marker associated with left ventricular contractile dysfunction and heart failure. On the other hand, IL-6 activates signalling pathways which mediate delayed ischemic preconditioning. We have therefore studied the cellular mechanisms of IL-6-induced cardioprotection.