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Published on: May 6, 2014
The IL-1 Family and Its Role in Atherosclerosis
Leticia González1,2, Katherine Rivera1,3, Marcelo E Andia1,2
1Centro de Imágenes Biomédicas-Departamento de Radiología, Escuela de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 3580000, Chile.
Abstract:
The IL-1 superfamily of cytokines is a central regulator of immunity and inflammation. The family is composed of 11 cytokines (with agonist, antagonist, and anti-inflammatory properties) and 10 receptors, all tightly regulated through decoy receptor, receptor antagonists, and signaling inhibitors. Inflammation not only is an important physiological response against infection and injury but also plays a central role in atherosclerosis development. Several clinical association studies along with experimental studies have implicated the IL-1 superfamily of cytokines and its receptors in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease. Here, we summarize the key features of the IL-1 family, its role in immunity and disease, and how it helps shape the development of atherosclerosis.
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