IL-4 Induces Characteristic Th2 Responses Even in the Combined Absence of IL-5, IL-9, and IL-13

摘要: Functional redundancy is highly prevalent among the Th2 interleukins (IL)-4, IL-5, IL-9, and IL-13. To define critical functions of these cytokines, we have generated a novel panel compound cytokine-deficient mice (from single to quadruple cytokine knockouts). We find that cytokines are not essential for fetal survival even during allogeneic pregnancy. Using intestinal parasite infection pulmonary granuloma model, demonstrate cryptic roles IL-4, IL-13 in responses. Significantly, although add speed magnitude response, threshold reached at which IL-4 alone can activate all effector functions. These reveal distinct spatial, temporal, hierarchical requirements immune function.