recombinant human interleukin-18

**Recombinant human interleukin-18 (rhIL-18)** is a genetically engineered form of the human cytokine interleukin-18, an immunostimulatory protein within the IL-1 superfamily. IL-18 is naturally produced by multiple cell types including macrophages, dendritic cells, and keratinocytes. It requires cleavage by caspase-1 to become biologically active. IL-18 mediates immune responses via a cell surface receptor complex (α chain IL-1Rrp1 and β chain AcPL) and induces production of interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), enhances natural killer (NK) cell and cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) activity, and synergizes with IL-12 to drive T helper 1 (Th1) responses. Recombinant human IL-18 is being studied primarily for its antitumor effects in advanced cancers, including melanoma, renal cell carcinoma, and lymphomas. It has been investigated in both monotherapy and in combination with other agents like monoclonal antibodies. Systemic administration is generally well tolerated, with common adverse effects including fever, chills, headache, fatigue, and mild to moderate hematologic or metabolic abnormalities. No maximum tolerated dose has been established in clinical trials.

Other names

interleukin-18interleukin18interleukin 18IL-18IL18IL 18