IL18
Description
Interleukin-18 (IL-18) is a potent pro-inflammatory cytokine that plays a critical role in the regulation of immune responses, particularly in the context of viral and bacterial infections. It is produced primarily by macrophages and dendritic cells in response to microbial stimuli. IL-18 exerts its effects by binding to the IL-18 receptor, which is expressed on a variety of immune cells, including natural killer (NK) cells, T cells, and B cells. Upon binding, IL-18 triggers a cascade of signaling events that lead to the production of interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), a key cytokine involved in antiviral and anti-tumor immunity. Additionally, IL-18 has been implicated in the pathogenesis of various inflammatory diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and rheumatoid arthritis.
Associated Diseases
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Crohn‘s disease
- Ulcerative colitis
- Sepsis
- Asthma
- Atherosclerosis
- Cancer
- Autoimmune diseases
Did you know?
IL-18 was originally named ‘interferon-gamma-inducing factor‘ due to its ability to stimulate IFN-γ production.
