In this study we demonstrate that the cytokines IL-4 and IL-13, but not IL-10, can induce osteoblast chemotaxis. Recombinant IL-4 (rIL-4) and rIL-13 mediated cell migration was observed using a modified multi-well Boyden chamber system. Maximum chemotaxis was observed at concentrations of 100 ng/ml of both rIL-4 and rIL-13 with a chemotactic index of 2.0 +/- 0.1 and 2.3 +/- 0.4, respectively in this system, whereas IL-10 did not show chemotactic abilities for osteoblasts. Our results suggest that IL-4 and IL-13 could take part in the recruitment of osteoblasts and thereby be of importance in the cytokine regulation of bone resorption and healing.