Interleukin-17 cytokines (IL-17 cytokines)

**Interleukin-17 cytokines** (referred to as "Th17 cytokines" when highlighting their source) are a family of pro-inflammatory cytokines mainly produced by CD4+ T helper 17 (Th17) cells, but also by some other immune subsets[3][5]. Th17 cytokines include IL-17A, IL-17F, IL-21, IL-22, and GM-CSF, with IL-17A and IL-17F being the most characteristic members[3][5][7][9]. They mediate host defense against extracellular bacteria and fungi by recruiting and activating neutrophils and other innate cells, especially at mucosal and epithelial barriers[1][3][7][9]. Aberrant or excessive production of these cytokines is linked to the pathogenesis of autoimmune and chronic inflammatory diseases, such as psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and certain cancers[4][6][8]. Several monoclonal antibodies targeting IL-17A or its receptor are approved for diseases like psoriasis, but their use can increase susceptibility to infections and worsen inflammatory bowel disease due to impaired mucosal immunity[8]. **Important note:** - "Th17 cytokines" is not a precise molecular target but a functional group of cytokines; it is not the name of a single gene, protein, or receptor[5][7]. Consistent with naming conventions, "Interleukin-17 cytokines" or "IL-17 cytokines" reflects the most accurate, canonical form. - For **structured knowledgebases**, "IL-17A" or specific interleukin family members (e.g., IL-17A, IL-17F) or their receptors (e.g., IL-17 receptor A) are preferable as singular, actionable therapeutic targets. **Summary of field conventions for this entry:** - "Th17 cytokines" refers collectively to several cytokines secreted by Th17 cells, most notably IL-17A and IL-17F, but not to any single molecular entity[5][7][3][9]. - In drug development, anti-IL-17A, anti-IL-17F, or anti-IL-17 receptor agents are used to target these cytokines[8][4]. - The use of this plural/catch-all form warrants the flag is_incorrect: true for structured, singular target databases.

Other names

IL-17 familyTh17 cytokinesIL-17AIL-17FInterleukin 17 cytokines

Neutralization of IL-17A (antibody-mediated inhibition) - Blockade of IL-17 receptor signaling - Inhibition of upstream cytokines that drive Th17 differentiation (e.g., IL-23 inhibition)