Biology of recently discovered cytokines: interleukin-17--a unique inflammatory cytokine with roles in bone biology and arthritis.

Department of Oral Biology, School of Dental Medicine, University at Buffalo, State University of New York, USA. sgaffen@acsu.buffalo.edu

IL-17 and its receptor are founding members of an emerging family of cytokines and receptors with many unique characteristics. IL-17 is produced primarily by T cells, particularly those of the memory compartment. In contrast, IL-17 receptor is ubiquitously expressed, making nearly all cells potential targets of IL-17. Although it has only limited homology to other cytokines, IL-17 exhibits proinflammatory properties similar to those of tumor necrosis factor-alpha, particularly with respect to induction of other inflammatory effectors. In addition, IL-17 synergizes potently with other cytokines, placing it in the center of the inflammatory network. Strikingly, IL-17 has been associated with several bone pathologies, most notably rheumatoid arthritis.

PMID: 15535837 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

PMCID: PMC1064872