Interferons as components of the complex web of reactions sustaining inflammation in idiopathic inflammatory myopathies

Cytokine. 2015 Jul;74(1):81-7. doi: 10.1016/j.cyto.2014.10.012. Epub 2014 Dec 4.

Abstract

Evidence accumulates implicating interferons (IFNs) in the chronic inflammation associated with the idiopathic inflammatory mypathies (IM). Dermatomyositis in particular appears to display a strong IFN type 1 signature. Proposed pathogenic actions of IFNs include the upregulation of major histocompatibility complex class I on muscle fibres, and the induction of a plethora of pro-inflammatory factors, including cytokines and chemokines. This review brings together findings on IFNs and IFN-induced factors, sketching their roles in IM immunopathogenesis in general and dermatomyositis in particular, and offering a basis for exploring their potential therapeutic relevance.

Keywords: Chemokines; Cytokines; Inflammatory myopathy; Interferon-inducible genes; Interferons.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cytokines / immunology
  • Cytokines / metabolism
  • Dermatomyositis / immunology*
  • Dermatomyositis / pathology
  • Dermatomyositis / therapy
  • Gene Expression Regulation
  • Humans
  • Inflammation
  • Interferon Type I / immunology
  • Interferon Type I / metabolism
  • Interferons / genetics
  • Interferons / immunology*
  • Interferons / metabolism*
  • Major Histocompatibility Complex
  • Muscles / pathology
  • Myositis / immunology*
  • Myositis / metabolism
  • Myositis / pathology

Substances

  • Cytokines
  • Interferon Type I
  • Interferons