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Updated: Jun 8, 2026
10:30
Visualization of IL-22-expressing Lymphocytes Using Reporter Mice
Published on: January 25, 2017
IL-22 induces an acute-phase response.
Spencer C Liang1, Cheryl Nickerson-Nutter, Debra D Pittman
1Inflammation and Immunology Research Unit, Pfizer Biotherapeutics Research and Development, Cambridge, MA 02140, USA.
Journal of Immunology (Baltimore, Md. : 1950)
|September 28, 2010
Summary
Interleukin-22 (IL-22) influences systemic physiology beyond its local effects on epithelial cells. This cytokine impacts blood counts, coagulation, and induces an acute-phase response, suggesting a broader role in inflammation.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Physiology
Background:
- Interleukin-22 (IL-22) is produced by various immune cells.
- IL-22 primarily acts on non-hematopoietic cells like epithelial cells.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the systemic effects of IL-22 beyond its direct cellular targets.
- To understand IL-22's role in systemic inflammation and acute-phase responses.
Main Methods:
- Adenoviral-mediated delivery of IL-22.
- Systemic administration of IL-22 protein.
- Analysis of systemic biochemical, cellular, and physiological parameters.
Main Results:
- IL-22 modulated coagulation factors (fibrinogen) and blood cell counts (platelets, neutrophils, RBCs).
- IL-22 induced thymic atrophy, weight loss, and altered renal tubule activity.
- Hepatic changes included induced fibrinogen, CXCL1, and serum amyloid A, indicating an acute-phase response.
Conclusions:
- Circulating IL-22 induces systemic physiological changes indicative of an acute-phase response.
- IL-22 contributes to systemic inflammation beyond its local tissue effects.
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