Host cytokine pathways

Host cytokine pathways represent the intricate network of signaling molecules and their receptors that coordinate the body's immune response to pathogens, tissue damage, and malignant cells [2, 5]. These pathways involve various families of cytokines, including interleukins, interferons, and tumor necrosis factors, which trigger intracellular cascades such as the JAK-STAT, NF-kB, and MAPK pathways to regulate gene expression and cellular behavior [10, 15]. While essential for host defense, dysregulation of these pathways can lead to chronic inflammatory diseases, autoimmune disorders, and life-threatening "cytokine storms" characterized by systemic hyperinflammation [1, 12, 14]. Therapeutic strategies targeting these pathways include monoclonal antibodies that neutralize specific cytokines or their receptors, as well as small-molecule inhibitors of downstream signaling enzymes [4, 8]. However, because these pathways are fundamental to immunity, their pharmacological modulation requires careful management to balance anti-inflammatory efficacy with the risk of opportunistic infections and other safety concerns [2, 15].

Other names

Cytokine signaling pathwaysHost immune signalingCytokine-mediated signalingInflammatory signaling cascades

Modulation of the host immune response through the inhibition of specific cytokines (e.g., TNF-alpha, IL-6, IL-17, IL-23) or their downstream intracellular signaling components (e.g., JAK kinases, BTK) to prevent hyperinflammation or restore immune homeostasis [1, 4, 8].