Interleukin 12: A key modulator of immune function

摘要: Interleukin (IL)-12 was cloned on the basis of its ability to activate natural killer (NK) cells and promote development cytolytic T cells. With further understanding activities, IL-12 has emerged as an important cytokine, affecting both immune hematologic functions. It been shown be necessary for cell independent induction interferon (IFN)-gamma, critical initial suppression bacterial parasitic infection; a Th1 response, effective host defense against intracellular pathogens; activation differentiated lymphocytes CD4+ CD8+ phenotype. thus functions link innate acquired responses. The therapeutic potential these activities is suggested by studies in tumor microbial models. suppressed growth all murine models examined. Antimicrobial activity demonstrated bacterial, yeast, parasitic, viral infection. In many models, linked production IFN-gamma and, parasite model, response. addition associated with disease role interaction other cytokines, particularly antagonists, such IL-4 IL-10, clarified extended our regulation should lead significant developments progression AIDS vaccine adjuvants able direct