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Genetic control of interleukin 12 responsiveness: implications for disease pathogenesis
J D Gorham1, M L Güler, K M Murphy
1Center for Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA.
Abstract:
We examined the effect of genetic background on Th1/Th2 development. We discuss data demonstrating that genetic background is an important determinant of interleukin-12 (IL-12) responsiveness and the potential implications for disease progression in murine experimental leishmaniasis. Genetic analysis of the differential control of IL-12 responsiveness led to the identification of a controlling locus on the middle portion of murine chromosome 11. This genetic region (or its human counterpart, 5q31) has been associated with increased disease susceptibilities for several atopic, infectious, and autoimmune disorders. We discuss potential roles for genetic control of IL-12 responsiveness in the development of these diseases.