Interleukin-12 (IL-12) and Interleukin-23 (IL-23) (IL-12, IL-23)

Interleukin-12 and Interleukin-23 are heterodimeric cytokines that regulate immune responses. Both molecules share the p40 (IL-12B) subunit but have distinct partner subunits (p35 for IL-12, p19 for IL-23), leading to different biological effects. IL-12 primarily drives the differentiation of naïve T cells into Th1 cells, promoting cell-mediated immunity, whereas IL-23 is essential for the maintenance and expansion of Th17 cells, contributing to chronic inflammation and defense against certain pathogens. Dysregulation of these cytokines is associated with autoimmune and inflammatory diseases as well as cancer, making them important therapeutic targets. Multiple monoclonal antibodies have been developed to target either the p40 subunit (inhibiting both cytokines) or the p19 subunit (selectively inhibiting IL-23). Important caveat: There is no single protein called “Interleukin 12/23”; it is essential to specify whether the target of interest is IL-12, IL-23, or their shared p40 subunit.

Other names

IL-12 (“Interleukin-12”)IL-23 (“Interleukin-23”)IL-12p70IL-23p40/p19p40IL-12 family cytokines

Neutralization of cytokine signaling (by binding IL-12 and/or IL-23 and preventing receptor activation); Suppression of downstream T cell activation (blockade of Th1/Th17 differentiation and cytokine release); Decrease of proinflammatory cytokine production