Recombinant Interleukin 10 (IL-10) is a cytokine primarily synthesized by monocytes and, to a lesser extent, lymphocytes. It exhibits diverse effects on immune regulation and inflammation. IL-10 suppresses the expression of Th1 cytokines, MHC class II antigens, and costimulatory molecules on macrophages. Furthermore, it promotes B cell survival, proliferation, and antibody production. IL-10 can inhibit NF-kappa B activity and participates in regulating the JAK-STAT signaling pathway. Studies involving knockout mice suggest that IL-10 plays a critical role as an immunoregulator in the intestinal tract.
Interleukin-10 (IL-10) is a crucial anti-inflammatory cytokine that plays a significant role in regulating immune responses. It is produced by various cell types, including T cells, NK cells, macrophages, and monocytes . Recombinant human IL-10 (rhuIL-10) is a synthetic form of this cytokine, designed to mimic the natural IL-10 produced in the human body.
IL-10 is known for its ability to inhibit the synthesis of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IFN-γ, IL-2, IL-3, TNF-α, and GM-CSF, which are produced by cells like macrophages and regulatory T cells . This cytokine also enhances the survival, proliferation, and differentiation of B cells, and can block the activation of cytokine synthesis and several accessory functions of macrophages .
IL-10 initiates signal transduction by binding to a cell surface receptor complex consisting of IL-10 receptor I (IL-10RI) and IL-10 receptor II (IL-10RII) . This binding activates the Janus kinase 1 (Jak1) and tyrosine kinase 2 (Tyk2), leading to the phosphorylation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (Stat3) . The activation of Stat3 is crucial for the anti-inflammatory effects of IL-10, as it regulates the expression of various genes involved in immune responses.
Recombinant human IL-10 has been explored for its therapeutic potential in various inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. For instance, it has been studied in the treatment of Crohn’s disease, where it was found to induce clinical remission and endoscopic improvement in patients with mild to moderately active disease . However, the therapeutic efficacy of rhuIL-10 can be dose-dependent, with higher doses sometimes being less effective .
Clinical studies have shown that rhuIL-10 is generally safe and well-tolerated. Adverse effects are typically dose-related, mild to moderate in severity, and reversible . Common side effects include asymptomatic anemia and thrombocytopenia at higher doses . Importantly, no serum accumulation of rhuIL-10 or antibodies against IL-10 were detected after 4 weeks of treatment .