International Journal of Molecular Sciences, Vol.16, No.12, 29357-29369, 2015
IL-18 and Cutaneous Inflammatory Diseases
Interleukin (IL)-18, an IL-1 family cytokine, is a pleiotropic immune regulator. IL-18 plays a strong proinflammatory role by inducing interferon (IFN)-. Previous studies have implicated IL-18 in the pathogenesis of various diseases. However, it is not well understood biologic activities of IL-18 in the diverse skin diseases. Here, we have reviewed the expression and function of IL-18 in skin diseases including inflammatory diseases. This article provides an evidence-based understanding of the role of IL-18 in skin diseases and its relationship with disease activities.
Keywords:IL-18;psoriasis;atopic dermatitis;urticaria;contact dermatitis;alopecia areata;drug eruption;lupus erythematosus;fibrosis;graft-versus-host disease;skin tumor;skin disease