interleukin-27

Interleukin-27 is a **heterodimeric cytokine** composed of two subunits, IL-27p28 and Epstein-Barr virus-induced gene 3 (EBI3). It is produced mainly by antigen-presenting cells and signals through a receptor complex consisting of gp130 and IL-27Rα (WSX-1/TCCR)[3][7]. IL-27 activates the Janus kinase (JAK)-signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) pathway and is involved in both innate and adaptive immunity. Mechanistically, it **modulates T cell responses**—promoting Th1 differentiation while inhibiting Th17 cell responses and inducing IL-10-producing regulatory T (Tr1) cells, giving it significant anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties[1][7]. In preclinical models, exogenous IL-27 shows anti-inflammatory and anti-tumorigenic activity, inhibiting inflammatory arthritis, colitis, and promoting anti-tumor responses (notably enhancing CD8+ T cell cytotoxicity against tumors)[1][2][4][5][6][8]. Its therapeutic applications in development include **autoimmune diseases** (such as spondyloarthritis) and several **types of cancer** (including melanoma, chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), and acute myeloid leukemia (AML))[2][4][5][8].

Other names

IL27IL-27IL 27Interleukin 27Interleukin27Interleukin-27IL-27p28/EBI3 heterodimerIL-27 cytokineIL27 cytokineIL 27 cytokine