The prediction and prevention of drug-induced liver injury (DILI) have been hindered by limited knowledge of the underlying mechanisms, in part the result of a lack of animal models. Using a newly established DILI model induced by halothane, we found increased liver damage susceptibility in interleukin 10 (IL-10) knockout (KO) mice. Extensive neutrophil infiltration and chemoattractant factor interleukin 8 (IL-8) expression in IL-10 KO mice were observed after halothane administration. The elevation of IL-8 expression was NF-κB- and P38 MAPK-dependent. In addition, increased signal transducer and activator of transcription factors (STAT) 1 and STAT3 were observed in halothane treated IL-10 KO mice. Exogenous IL-10 treatment protected susceptible mice from halothane induced liver injury (HILI). In conclusion, IL-10 deficiency increases susceptibility to HILI and increased IL-8 expression as well as neutrophil infiltration may be responsible for this phenomenon. © 2008 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.