Interleukin-18 as a potential therapeutic target in chronic autoimmune/inflammatory conditions

Bombardieri, M., McInnes, I. B. and Pitzalis, C. (2007) Interleukin-18 as a potential therapeutic target in chronic autoimmune/inflammatory conditions. Expert Opinion on Biological Therapy, 7(1), pp. 31-40. (doi: 10.1517/14712598.7.1.31) (PMID:17150017)

Abstract

Interleukin-18 (IL-18), a recently identified immunoregulatory and inflammatory cytokine, has attracted a profound interest as a potential therapeutic target in autoimmune/inflammatory disorders. In this review the authors focus on: IL-18 biology as an important link between innate and adaptive immunity; evidence of its pro-inflammatory role in several human autoimmune and chronic inflammatory disorders; and data indicating that IL-18 blockade in animal models results in prevention/amelioration of the disease process and preservation of the target tissue integrity and function. Finally, the authors analyse strategies presently under development to block IL-18 function and potential pitfalls resulting from IL-18 blockade that should be considered in ongoing/future clinical trials.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: McInnes, Professor Iain
• Authors: Bombardieri, M., McInnes, I. B., and Pitzalis, C.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Infection & Immunity
• Journal Name: Expert Opinion on Biological Therapy
• Publisher: Taylor & Francis
• ISSN: 1471-2598
• ISSN (Online): 1744-7682