IL 18 Mouse
Interleukin-18, IL-18, IFN gamma-inducing factor, IFN-gamma-inducing factor, Interleukin-1 gamma, IL-1 gamma.
Description
The IL 18 is purified by proprietary chromatographic techniques.
Product Specs
Interleukin-18, IL-18, IFN gamma-inducing factor, IFN-gamma-inducing factor, Interleukin-1 gamma, IL-1 gamma.
Product Science Overview
IL-18 is produced by various cell types, including dendritic cells, monocytes, macrophages, neutrophils, and epithelial cells . The precursor form of IL-18 is a 24 kDa protein that lacks a signal sequence for secretion. It is cleaved by IL-1β converting enzyme (ICE) or caspase-1 to produce the active 18 kDa form . This active form is responsible for the cytokine’s biological functions.
IL-18 plays a significant role in facilitating Th1-type immune responses by acting on T cells . It stimulates the production of IFN-γ and IL-13 when T cells are activated in the presence of an anti-CD3 antibody . Additionally, IL-18 acts on basophils and mast cells, leading to complex physiological reactions, including allergic responses .
IL-18 is implicated in various disease conditions due to its pro-inflammatory nature. Elevated levels of IL-18 have been observed in patients with allergic diseases such as bronchial asthma, atopic dermatitis, and allergic rhinitis . It is also associated with autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and multiple sclerosis . Furthermore, IL-18 is found in the urine of patients with acute renal disorders and is involved in the progression of type 2 diabetes .
The activity of IL-18 is regulated by its natural inhibitor, IL-18 binding protein (IL-18BP) . When IL-18BP levels are higher than IL-18, the cytokine’s activity is suppressed. However, high levels of IL-18 can lead to inflammatory reactions, making it a potential target for therapeutic interventions . Research is ongoing to understand the regulation and release of IL-18, which could unlock its potential as a biomarker or drug target .
