The interleukin network in the immunopathogenesis of oral diseases

Interleukins produced by both lymphoid and non-lymphoid cells play a crucial role in the immune response. This paper discusses the possible interleukin network in the immunopathogenesis of some oral diseases. In chronic inflammatory periodontal diseases and periapical inflammation, interleukins such as IL-1 and IL-6 may be responsible in tissue destruction. High levels of IL-12 but not IL-4 and IL-10 may reduce the course of candidal infection. The progression of HIV infection has been associated with the regulation of distinct cytokines; thus, the pathogenesis of Kaposi's sarcoma may be regulated by IL-6. In autoimmune-associated oral diseases such as lichen planus, the role of Langerhans cells in presenting autoantigens may parallel with increased levels of IL-6. It seems, therefore, that the course of these diseases is regulated by these polypeptides which may in turn modulate the disease severity. However, whether altered levels of interleukins in certain oral disorders can be used as a diagnostic marker requires further investigation.