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Updated: May 8, 2026
04:59
Cheek Injection Model for Simultaneous Measurement of Pain and Itch-related Behaviors
Published on: September 27, 2019
Rethinking interleukin-31: A neuroimmune orchestrator of itch beyond Th2 immunity
Hiroyuki Irie1, Kenji Kabashima2
1Department of Dermatology, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan.
Summary
Interleukin (IL)-31 is a key driver of itch, affecting sensory neurons and linking immune cells to nerve circuits. Targeting the IL-31 pathway offers potential for treating various skin conditions by blocking itch signals.
Area of Science:
- Neuroimmunology
- Dermatology
- Cytokine Biology
Background:
- Interleukin (IL)-31 is a critical mediator of pruritus (itch).
- Elevated IL-31 expression is observed in diverse pruritic skin and systemic diseases.
- IL-31 acts as a neuroimmune cytokine, connecting immune cell activation with sensory neuronal pathways.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current knowledge on IL-31 biology, including its sources, receptor signaling, and role in disease.
- To discuss the function of IL-31 in both pruritic and non-pruritic conditions.
- To evaluate therapeutic strategies targeting the IL-31/IL-31 receptor axis.
Main Methods:
- Literature review summarizing existing research on IL-31.
- Analysis of cellular sources, receptor expression, and signaling mechanisms.
- Discussion of IL-31's role in various diseases and therapeutic interventions.
Main Results:
- IL-31 directly affects peripheral sensory neurons, contributing to itch.
- IL-31 signaling involves a heterodimeric receptor complex (IL-31RA/OSMRB).
- Human transcriptomic data suggest greater heterogeneity in IL-31-responsive neurons than previously thought.
Conclusions:
- IL-31 plays a significant role in itch pathophysiology and neuroimmune communication.
- Targeting the IL-31/IL-31 receptor axis is a promising therapeutic strategy for pruritic conditions.
- IL-31 blockade may offer benefits beyond itch relief, potentially modulating inflammatory programs.
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