IL-6 as a keystone cytokine in health and disease

CA Hunter, SA Jones - Nature immunology, 2015 - nature.com
CA Hunter, SA Jones
Nature immunology, 2015nature.com
Abstract Interleukin 6 (IL-6) has a broad effect on cells of the immune system and those not
of the immune system and often displays hormone-like characteristics that affect homeostatic
processes. IL-6 has context-dependent pro-and anti-inflammatory properties and is now
regarded as a prominent target for clinical intervention. However, the signaling cassette that
controls the activity of IL-6 is complicated, and distinct intervention strategies can inhibit this
pathway. Clinical experience with antagonists of IL-6 has raised new questions about how …
Abstract
Interleukin 6 (IL-6) has a broad effect on cells of the immune system and those not of the immune system and often displays hormone-like characteristics that affect homeostatic processes. IL-6 has context-dependent pro- and anti-inflammatory properties and is now regarded as a prominent target for clinical intervention. However, the signaling cassette that controls the activity of IL-6 is complicated, and distinct intervention strategies can inhibit this pathway. Clinical experience with antagonists of IL-6 has raised new questions about how and when to block this cytokine to improve disease outcome and patient wellbeing. Here we discuss the effect of IL-6 on innate and adaptive immunity and the possible advantages of various antagonists of IL-6 and consider how the immunobiology of IL-6 may inform clinical decisions.
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