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Tecan IBL Interleukin-18 (IL-18)
Overview:
- Formerly Known As: Interferon gamma-inducing factor (IGIF)
- Role: Crucial cytokine in the Th1 immune response
- Function: Stimulates the production of IFN-gamma in T cells and natural killer (NK) cells
Structure and Processing:
- Structural Similarities: IL-18 shares structural similarities with IL-1 beta, including a "signature sequence" motif and a folded structure consisting of beta-pleated sheets.
- Precursor Form: Initially synthesized as an inactive precursor without a signal peptide.
- Activation: Requires cleavage by the intracellular cysteine protease IL-1 beta-converting enzyme (ICE), also known as caspase-1, to become an active, mature cytokine.
Mechanism of Action:
- Receptor Interaction: The mature IL-18 binds to its receptor complex, which leads to the activation of various downstream signaling pathways.
- Induced Factors: IL-18 induces the expression and synthesis of several important factors, including:
- Interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma): Enhances the Th1 immune response.
- Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF): Involved in systemic inflammation.
- IL-1: Plays a role in inflammation and immune responses.
- Fas Ligand: Involved in inducing apoptosis.
- Chemokines: Attract immune cells to sites of infection or inflammation.
Role in Immune Response:
- Innate Immunity: IL-18 contributes to the innate immune response by enhancing the activity of NK cells and promoting the production of IFN-gamma.
- Acquired Immunity: IL-18 also plays a role in the acquired immune response, particularly in the development and maintenance of Th1 responses.
Clinical Significance:
- Disease Association: Elevated levels of IL-18 have been associated with various inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and chronic infections.
- Potential Therapeutic Target: Due to its central role in inflammation and immune regulation, IL-18 is considered a potential target for therapeutic interventions in immune-related diseases.
Summary: IL-18 is a key cytokine that bridges the innate and acquired immune responses by promoting IFN-gamma production and influencing a range of other immune factors. Its processing from an inactive precursor to an active cytokine is crucial for its function, and its involvement in various immune processes makes it an important molecule in both health and disease.
This ELISA Kit from Tecan IBL International is for research use only.
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