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Updated: Jun 14, 2026
07:46
In Vitro Differentiation of Naive CD4+ T Cells into Pathogenic Th17 Cells in Mouse
Published on: October 25, 2024
Interleukin-17 and its expanding biological functions
1National Key Laboratory of Medical Immunology & Institute of Immunology, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China.
Cellular & Molecular Immunology
|April 13, 2010
Summary
Interleukin-17 (IL-17) is a key cytokine in inflammation, produced by various immune cells. Targeting the IL-17 pathway shows promise for treating inflammatory diseases and cancer.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Interleukin-17 (IL-17) and IL-17-producing cells are crucial in immune responses and inflammation.
- IL-17 is primarily produced by T helper 17 (Th17) cells, but also by gammadeltaT and natural killer T (NKT) cells.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the multifaceted roles of IL-17 in immunity, disease pathogenesis, and potential therapeutic applications.
- To highlight the involvement of IL-17-producing cells in various conditions, including allergies, autoimmune diseases, and cancer.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies investigating IL-17 function and involvement in disease.
- Analysis of the mechanisms by which IL-17 influences cellular responses and immune system linkage.
Main Results:
- IL-17 acts as a proinflammatory cytokine, inducing neutrophil accumulation and linking innate and adaptive immunity.
- IL-17-producing cells are implicated in the pathogenesis of diverse diseases, including inflammatory disorders and malignancies.
- IL-17 also plays a role in host defense against infections and anti-cancer immunity.
Conclusions:
- The IL-17 axis is a significant factor in both disease development and host defense.
- Targeting the IL-17 pathway is a promising therapeutic strategy for inflammatory conditions and cancer.
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