IL8
The IL8 Gene: A Key Player in Inflammation
Description:
The IL8 gene, also known as the interleukin-8 gene, encodes a potent pro-inflammatory cytokine called interleukin-8 (IL-8). IL-8 plays a crucial role in regulating inflammation, a complex biological process that helps the body combat infection and repair damaged tissues.
IL-8 is produced by various immune cells, including neutrophils, monocytes, and macrophages, in response to inflammatory signals. It binds to two receptors, CXCR1 and CXCR2, on the surface of target cells, initiating a cascade of intracellular events that promote inflammation.
Role in Associated Diseases:
IL-8 is implicated in a wide range of inflammatory diseases, including:
- Rheumatoid arthritis: IL-8 is elevated in the synovial fluid of patients with rheumatoid arthritis, where it promotes inflammation and joint damage.
- Crohn‘s disease: IL-8 is involved in the excessive inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract seen in Crohn‘s disease.
- Sepsis: IL-8 is a key mediator of the systemic inflammatory response in sepsis, a life-threatening condition triggered by severe infection.
- Asthma: IL-8 is thought to contribute to airway inflammation and bronchospasm in asthma.
- Cancer: IL-8 is often associated with tumor growth and angiogenesis (formation of new blood vessels that supply tumors).
Did you Know ?
According to a study published in the journal "Nature Reviews Immunology," IL-8 levels are elevated in over 70% of chronic inflammatory diseases.
