IL-12 family cytokines: immunological playmakers
Dario A A Vignali, Vijay K Kuchroo, Dario A A Vignali, Vijay K Kuchroo
Abstract
The interleukin 12 (IL-12) family is unique in having the only heterodimeric cytokines, including IL-12, IL-23, IL-27 and IL-35. This feature endows these cytokines with a unique set of connections and functional interactions not shared by other cytokine families. Despite sharing many structural features and molecular partners, cytokines of the IL-12 family mediate surprisingly diverse functional effects. Here we discuss the unique and unusual structural and functional characteristics of this cytokine family. We outline how cells might interpret seemingly similar cytokine signals to give rise to the diverse functional outcomes that characterize this cytokine family. We also discuss the therapeutic implications of this complexity.
Conflict of interest statement
COMPETING FINANCIAL INTERESTS
The authors declare competing financial interests.
Figures
![Figure 1. Architecture of the IL-12 Cytokine…](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/instance/4158817/bin/nihms622804f1.jpg)
![Figure 2. IL-12 Family Cytokines as an…](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/instance/4158817/bin/nihms622804f2.jpg)
Source: PubMed