IL17F
Description
The IL17F (interleukin 17F) is a protein-coding gene located on chromosome 6.
Interleukin 17F (IL-17F) is a signaling protein encoded by the IL17F gene in humans. It is considered a pro-inflammatory cytokine, belonging to the interleukin 17 family. IL-17F is mainly produced by T helper 17 cells after stimulation with interleukin 23, but can also be produced by other cell types, including innate immune cells and epithelial cells. The IL17F gene is located on chromosome 6p12 and was discovered in 2001. IL-17F can be secreted as a disulfide-linked homodimer or heterodimer.
IL-17F is involved in inflammation and host defense against infection. It induces the expression of proinflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor, interleukin 1, interleukin 6, and colony-stimulating factors. IL-17F also induces the expression of chemokines, promoting inflammation and neutrophil recruitment. Its signaling can lead to the production of antimicrobial peptides and matrix metalloproteinases. IL-17F targets epithelial cells, fibroblasts, keratinocytes, synoviocytes, and endothelial cells, which express IL-17RA and IL-17RC, the receptors IL-17F binds.
IL17F is a key player in both innate and adaptive immunity, contributing to antimicrobial defense and maintaining tissue integrity. It forms a heterodimer with IL17A, signaling through the IL17RA-IL17RC receptor complex. This interaction triggers a cascade of events involving TRAF3IP2, TRAF6, NF-kappa-B, and MAP kinases, ultimately leading to the production of cytokines, chemokines, antimicrobial peptides, and matrix metalloproteinases. These molecules contribute to inflammatory responses, particularly in defense against extracellular bacteria and fungi. IL17F also plays a role in neutrophil activation and recruitment, stimulating the production of antimicrobial beta-defensins to limit microbial entry. Notably, IL17F homodimer can signal independently through the IL17RC homodimer, activating TRAF6 and NF-kappa-B signaling. This pathway leads to the production of IL33, a cytokine involved in allergic responses to fungi. IL17F also influences sympathetic innervation of peripheral organs and adipose tissue, contributing to immune tolerance and the regulation of intestinal microbiota.
IL17F is also known as CANDF6, IL-17F, IL17A, ML-1, ML1.
