IL10 - Interleukin 10 | Elisa - Clia - Antibody - Protein

Background:

Interleukin-10 (IL-10) is a cytokine, secreted by various immune cells such as T cells, B cells, macrophages, and dendritic cells. It is produced as a homodimer, meaning it consists of two identical subunits linked together. Each subunit contains about 160 amino acids and adopts a tertiary structure stabilized by disulfide bonds. IL-10 exerts its effects by binding to specific cell surface receptors, including the IL-10 receptor (IL-10R), which initiates downstream signaling pathways. IL-10 is primarily known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It suppresses the activity of pro-inflammatory cytokines and immune cells, thereby dampening the inflammatory response. IL-10 inhibits the production of cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1 (IL-1), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), which are involved in inflammation and immune activation. IL-10 plays a crucial role in regulating immune responses to pathogens and preventing excessive tissue damage caused by inflammation. It helps to maintain immune homeostasis by limiting the duration and intensity of immune responses, thereby preventing autoimmune reactions and tissue injury. IL-10 also promotes tissue repair and regeneration by reducing inflammation and promoting wound healing. It also contributes to the induction of immune tolerance, allowing the immune system to differentiate between harmless antigens and potential threats, thereby preventing autoimmune diseases. Dysregulation of IL-10 signaling can lead to immune dysfunction and contribute to the pathogenesis of various inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Deficiencies in IL-10 production or function have been associated with increased susceptibility to autoimmune disorders such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), rheumatoid arthritis, and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Dysregulated IL-10 signaling has been implicated in the pathogenesis of conditions such as cancer, infectious diseases, and chronic viral infections.

Protein Structure:

IL-10 is a homodimeric protein, with each monomer consisting of 178 amino acids. The structure of IL-10 includes six alpha-helices that form a helical bundle. This structure is stabilized by two disulfide bonds. The active form of IL-10 is a non-covalent homodimer, where two identical subunits interact to form the functional cytokine.

Classification and Subtypes:

IL-10 belongs to the IL-10 family of cytokines, which includes several other members such as IL-19, IL-20, IL-22, IL-24, and IL-26. These cytokines share structural similarities and some overlapping functions, particularly in their roles in immune regulation and inflammation.

Function and Biological Significance:Function and Biological Significance:

• Anti-Inflammatory Effects: IL-10 is a potent suppressor of inflammatory responses. It inhibits the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1, IL-6, and TNF-α by macrophages and dendritic cells.
• Immune Regulation: IL-10 promotes the differentiation of regulatory T cells (Tregs), which are essential for maintaining immune tolerance and preventing autoimmunity.
• Tissue Protection and Repair: IL-10 helps protect tissues from damage during inflammatory responses and supports tissue repair processes.
• B Cell Regulation: IL-10 influences B cell proliferation, differentiation, and antibody production, contributing to the regulation of humoral immunity.

Interactions:

• Receptor Binding: IL-10 exerts its effects by binding to the IL-10 receptor (IL-10R), which consists of two subunits: IL-10R1 and IL-10R2. The binding of IL-10 to its receptor activates the JAK-STAT signaling pathway, leading to the transcription of anti-inflammatory genes.
• Crosstalk with Other Cytokines: IL-10 interacts with various cytokines in the immune network, modulating their production and activity to maintain a balanced immune response.

Clinical Issues:

• Autoimmune Diseases: Dysregulation of IL-10 production or signaling is implicated in several autoimmune diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, and inflammatory bowel disease. Therapeutic modulation of IL-10 levels or activity is being explored as a treatment strategy for these conditions.
• Infections: IL-10 plays a dual role in infections. While it helps control excessive inflammation, which can damage tissues, it may also dampen the immune response to pathogens. Understanding this balance is crucial for developing therapies for infectious diseases.
• Cancer: IL-10 has complex roles in cancer. It can inhibit tumor growth by suppressing inflammation, but it may also promote tumor immune evasion by inhibiting anti-tumor immune responses. The therapeutic potential of IL-10 in cancer is under investigation, with some studies exploring its use to enhance immune checkpoint blockade therapies.

Summary:

Interleukin 10 (IL-10) is a crucial anti-inflammatory cytokine involved in regulating immune responses and maintaining immune homeostasis. Its ability to suppress pro-inflammatory cytokine production, promote regulatory T cell differentiation, and support tissue protection and repair underscores its significance in health and disease. Dysregulation of IL-10 is implicated in autoimmune diseases, infections, and cancer, making it a key target for therapeutic intervention. Understanding the diverse roles and regulatory mechanisms of IL-10 continues to be a focus of research aimed at harnessing its therapeutic potential.