Published in:
Open Access
01-07-2016 | Review
The IL-1 cytokine family and its role in inflammation and fibrosis in the lung
Author:
L. A. Borthwick
Published in:
Seminars in Immunopathology
|
Issue 4/2016
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Abstract
The IL-1 cytokine family comprises 11 members (7 ligands with agonist activity, 3 receptor antagonists and 1 anti-inflammatory cytokine) and is recognised as a key mediator of inflammation and fibrosis in multiple tissues including the lung. IL-1 targeted therapies have been successfully employed to treat a range of inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and gouty arthritis. This review will introduce the members of the IL-1 cytokine family, briefly discuss the cellular origins and cellular targets and provide an overview of the role of these molecules in inflammation and fibrosis in the lung.