IL1F10 - Interleukin 38 | Elisa - Clia - Antibody - Protein

Background

Interleukin-38 (IL-38), also known as IL-1F10, is a member of the interleukin-1 (IL-1) cytokine family, which includes several key regulators of immune and inflammatory responses. IL-38 is encoded by the IL1F10 gene located on chromosome 2q13, a region that clusters with other IL-1 family members. It was identified relatively recently compared to other IL-1 cytokines and has garnered interest for its role in immune modulation. IL-38 is expressed in various tissues, including the skin, tonsils, heart, and lungs, with higher expression in immune cells such as macrophages and B cells. Unlike other IL-1 family cytokines that generally promote inflammation, IL-38 has been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, contributing to the resolution of inflammatory responses and maintenance of immune homeostasis.

Protein Structure

IL-38 is synthesized as a precursor protein that undergoes proteolytic processing to become fully active:

• Precursor IL-38: The inactive form, approximately 17-20 kDa, requiring cleavage for activation.
• Mature IL-38: The biologically active form generated through cleavage by specific proteases.

Structurally, IL-38 shares the conserved β-trefoil fold characteristic of the IL-1 family, which is essential for its interaction with receptors and subsequent biological activity.

Classification and Subtypes

IL-38 is classified under the IL-1 family, which includes:

• IL-1α and IL-1β
• IL-18
• IL-33
• IL-36 subfamily (IL-36α, IL-36β, IL-36γ, and IL-36Ra)
• IL-37

IL-38 does not have subtypes, but it is closely related to other IL-1 family members based on its structural and functional characteristics.

Function and Biological Significance

IL-38 plays several important roles in the immune system:

• Anti-inflammatory Activity: IL-38 has been shown to reduce the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-17, IL-22, and IL-1β, thereby attenuating inflammatory responses.
• Immune Regulation: It modulates the activity of immune cells, including dendritic cells and T cells, contributing to the resolution of inflammation and maintenance of immune balance.
• Interaction with Receptors: IL-38 can bind to the IL-1 receptor family members, such as IL-1RAPL1 and IL-1RAPL2, which may explain its regulatory effects on inflammation.

Clinical Issues

Dysregulation of IL-38 is associated with various inflammatory and autoimmune diseases:

• Rheumatoid Arthritis: Altered levels of IL-38 have been observed in patients, suggesting its potential role in disease modulation and as a therapeutic target.
• Psoriasis: IL-38 expression is increased in psoriatic lesions, indicating its involvement in skin inflammation and potential as a biomarker.
• Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE): Changes in IL-38 levels are linked to disease activity, with potential implications for disease management.
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): IL-38 may contribute to the regulation of gut inflammation, impacting conditions like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.

Summary

Interleukin-38 (IL-38) is a member of the IL-1 cytokine family with significant anti-inflammatory properties. It is expressed in various tissues and immune cells, playing a crucial role in modulating inflammatory and immune responses. IL-38 functions by reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and modulating immune cell activity, contributing to the resolution of inflammation. Dysregulation of IL-38 is associated with several inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, making it a potential therapeutic target and biomarker. Understanding the mechanisms of IL-38's action is essential for developing new strategies to treat inflammatory conditions.