IL-6 treatment increases the survival of retinal ganglion cells in vitro: The role of adenosine A1 receptor

► IL-6 is a trophic molecule for axotomized retinal ganglion cell survival in vitro. ► A1 adenosine receptors mediate the effect of IL-6 on retinal ganglion cell survival. ► Neutralization of BDNF inhibited the trophic effect of IL-6 on axotomized retinal ganglion cell. ► BDNF plays a role in the trophic effect of IL-6 on axotomized retinal ganglion cells.