Role of interleukin-18 in the pathophysiology of allergic diseases

Interleukin (IL)-18, discovered only 20 years ago, was first known as interferon (IFN)-γ inducing factor due to its ability to induce Type 1 helper T (Th1) cells to release IFN-γ [1]. Since then, this novel cytokine has been found to be expressed by macrophages, dendritic cells (DCs), epithelial cells, and keratinocytes and to activate a wide variety of lymphoid- and myeloid-derived cell types [2–4]. Induced IL-18 is now identified in a number of disorders, like autoimmunity, atopic and allergen-induced allergic responses, and defense against pathogens, most notably helminths.

Source: Cytokine and Growth Factor Reviews - July 13, 2016 Category: Molecular Biology Authors: Nathan L. Sanders, Anil Mishra Source Type: research