Molecular pathways in the induction of interleukin-27-driven regulatory type 1 cells

J Interferon Cytokine Res. 2010 Jun;30(6):381-8. doi: 10.1089/jir.2010.0047.

Abstract

Type 1 regulatory (Tr1) cells have emerged as key players in the prevention of autoimmunity. They produce high levels of the immunosuppressive cytokine interleukin (IL)-10 and confer protection against a wide panel of autoimmune diseases. However, the molecular pathways leading to their generation have long remained elusive. We have recently identified IL-27, a member of the IL-12 cytokine family, as a novel cytokine that induces Tr1 cells. Further analysis of IL-27-driven Tr1 cells have identified a critical role of the transcription factor avian musculoaponeurotic fibrosarcoma v-maf and of IL-21 in the generation of IL-27-induced Tr1 cells. Importantly, IL-27 also induces Tr1 cells in humans, suggesting that IL-27 administration may dampen tissue inflammation in humans as well. Here, we review the role of IL-27 in the generation of Tr1 cells and discuss its potential to alleviate autoimmune diseases.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Autoimmune Diseases / immunology*
  • Autoimmune Diseases / prevention & control
  • Humans
  • Interleukin-10 / immunology*
  • Interleukin-10 / metabolism
  • Interleukin-21
  • Interleukins / immunology*
  • Oncogene Protein v-maf / immunology
  • T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory / immunology*
  • T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory / metabolism

Substances

  • Interleukins
  • MYDGF protein, human
  • Oncogene Protein v-maf
  • Interleukin-10
  • Interleukin-21