To gain access to better insight into the mechanism(s) of action of the observed anti-inflammatory effects of EAE on pancreatitis, we have investigated the effects of EAE on pancreatic edema, leukocyte infiltration, amylase and lipase level, TNF-alpha, interleukin 6 (IL-6), myeloperoxidase activity, and lipid peroxidation. This evidence concerns the gene IL6 and pancreatitis.