Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 24, 2026

Isolation and Th17 Differentiation of Naïve CD4 T Lymphocytes
Published on: September 26, 2013
[Proinflammatory cytokine interleukin-17 and its role in pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis]
Laima Leonaviciene1, Rūta Bradūnaite, Vytautas Astrauskas
1Institute of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Vilnius University, Zygimantu 9, 2600 Vilnius, Lithuania. laima.leonaviciene@ekmi.vu.lt
Abstract:
This is a review concerning the role of interleukin-17, a proinflammatory cytokine, produced by activated memory CD4+ T cells, in pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis. As interleukin-17 shares properties with IL-1 and TNF-alpha, it may induce joint inflammation and bone and cartilage destruction. This cytokine is found in synovial fluids of patients with rheumatoid arthritis, and produced by rheumatoid arthritis synovium. It increases IL-6 production, induces collagen degradation and decreases collagen synthesis by synovium and cartilage and proteoglycan synthesis in cartilage. Interleukin-17 is also able to increase bone destruction and reduce its formation. Blocking of interleukin-17 with specific inhibitors provides a protective inhibition of cartilage and bone degradation.
Related Concept Videos
T Cell Types and Functions
Th1 cells stimulate dendritic cells to express necessary co-stimulatory molecules on their surfaces for...
Inflammatory Bowel Disease III: Crohn's Disease
The JAK-STAT Signaling Pathway
Inflammatory Response
Inflammation can be triggered by various stimuli, such as impact, abrasion, chemical irritation, infections, and extreme hot or cold temperatures. These can damage cells and connective tissue fibers,...
Inflammatory Bowel Disease II: Ulcerative Colitis
NF-κB-dependent Signaling Pathway
NF-κB-dependent Signaling Mechanism
The heterodimer of NF-κB...