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Dual biological effects of the cytokines interleukin-10 and interferon-γ

Cailin Moira Wilke1, Shuang Wei, Lin Wang

  • 1Department of Surgery, University of Michigan School of Medicine, Ann Arbor, USA.

Cancer Immunology, Immunotherapy : CII
|September 16, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Interleukin-10 (IL-10) shows antitumor effects, while interferon-gamma (IFNγ) can suppress immunity. Understanding these dual roles is key for developing effective cancer immunotherapies.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Oncology

Background:

  • Cytokines are traditionally classified as either immune stimulatory or inhibitory.
  • However, some cytokines exhibit dual roles, influencing immune responses in complex ways.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the dual roles of interleukin-10 (IL-10) and interferon-gamma (IFNγ) in malignancy.
  • To highlight the underappreciated stimulatory role of IL-10 and inhibitory role of IFNγ in cancer.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of current knowledge on IL-10 and IFNγ functions.
  • Analysis of cytokine-induced molecule expression (e.g., PD-L1, IDO, arginase).

Main Results:

  • IL-10 demonstrates antitumor immunity, contrary to its known regulatory functions.
  • IFNγ can induce inhibitory molecules like PD-L1, IDO, and arginase on various cell types.
  • These dual effects are observed in dendritic cells, tumor cells, and vascular endothelial cells.

Conclusions:

  • A comprehensive understanding of the dual effects of IL-10 and IFNγ is crucial for dissecting cytokine-associated pathology.
  • Recognizing these complex roles opens new avenues for developing effective immune therapies against cancer.

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