Abstract
The identification of an IFNγ-inducing factor (IGIF) subsequently termed interleukin -18 (IL-18), or interleukin -1 Family 4 (IL-1F4) led to the studies revealing that IL-18, like IL-1 and TNFα, is a proinflammatory cytokine. It plays an important role in immune and inflammatory reactions, and is notably present in several autoimmune disorders. Recent investigations have brought its uniqueness into relief. IL-18 also induces production of type II cytokines, such as IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13, which may exacerbate allergic conditions. IL-18 seems to exert its functions not by itself but rather in concert with other factors, promoting many of the biological activities associated with these other cytokines. The chapter provides information obtained from in vitro experiments, which reflects only part of the underlying complexity demonstrated in vivo. IL-18 is abundant in non-immune tissues including the skin and gut, and it's likely to provide an important role in the defense mechanism against mucosal and commensal organisms.
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