Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 20, 2026

Visualization of IL-22-expressing Lymphocytes Using Reporter Mice
Published on: January 25, 2017
IL-22, cell regeneration and autoimmunity
Enayat Nikoopour1, Stacey M Bellemore1, Bhagirath Singh1
1Centre for Human Immunology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Robarts Research Institute, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.
Abstract:
IL-22 as a cytokine is described with opposing pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory functions. Cell regeneration, tissue remodelling and balance between commensal bacteria in the gut and host immune system are considered as anti-inflammatory features of IL-22, whereas production of IL-22 from Th17 cells links this cytokine to pro-inflammatory pathways. Th17 cells and group 3 innate lymphoid cells (ILC3) are two major producers of IL-22 and both cell types express ROR-γt and Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) transcription factors. Typically, the immune system cells are the main producers of IL-22. However, targets of this cytokine are mostly non-hematopoietic cells such as hepatocytes, keratinocytes, and epithelial cells of lung and intestine. Association of IL-22 with other cytokines or transcription factors in different cell types might explain its contrasting role in health and disease. In this review we discuss the regulation of IL-22 production by AhR- and IL-23-driven pathways. A clear understanding of the biology of IL-22 will provide new opportunities for its application to improve human health involving many debilitating conditions.
Related Concept Videos
T Cell Types and Functions
Th1 cells stimulate dendritic cells to express necessary co-stimulatory molecules on their surfaces for...
T Cell Activation and Clonal Selection
Naive T cells that have not yet encountered an antigen express two primary CD...
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,...
Liver Regeneration
Cells of Liver
The liver comprises four major types of cells— hepatocytes, stellate, Kupffer, and sinusoidal endothelial cells. The hepatocytes are...
Cell-mediated Immune Responses
Cells of the Adaptive Immune Response

