[Biological properties of interleukin 18]

IL-18 was first described in 1989 and since its properties have been recognized, an interest in it is constantly growing. IL-18 induces synthesis and release of interferon gamma (IFN-gamma), interleukins 8, 4 and 13, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) and granulocyte/macrophage colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF). Thus, it modulates the function of many immunocompetent cells: macrophages, monocytes, lymphocytes and granulocytes. Another important feature of IL-18 is its ability to induce apoptosis of many cell types by inducing Fas ligand and Fas receptor, and granzymes. IL-18 seems to be particularly attractive as a highly specific marker of Th1-response and a potential element of complex antitumor therapy. In paper, the processes of synthesis, releasing and biological properties of IL-18 are reviewed, particularly in the aspects of immunomodulatory and antitumor activity.