Human Interleukin 17C (IL17C) Protein

Background

Interleukin 17C (IL17C) is a member of the IL-17 cytokine family, which is heavily involved in immune responses, particularly in inflammatory and autoimmune processes. The IL-17 family includes six members: IL-17A, IL-17B, IL-17C, IL-17D, IL-17E (IL-25), and IL-17F, all of which contribute in varying ways to host defense, primarily by inducing inflammatory responses. IL-17C plays a distinct role in mucosal immunity, primarily by acting as a mediator of the host defense against bacterial pathogens, particularly at epithelial barriers. IL-17C has drawn interest because of its autocrine and paracrine signaling capabilities, meaning that it can act both on the cells that produce it (autocrine signaling) and on neighboring cells (paracrine signaling). In contrast to IL-17A and IL-17F, which are secreted by Th17 cells, IL-17C is predominantly produced by epithelial cells. Its role in enhancing the immune response to infection makes it critical for barrier defense in tissues like the skin, lungs, intestines, and other mucosal surfaces