Interleukin-17A and Interleukin-17AF (IL-17A and IL-17AF)

Interleukin-17A (IL-17A) is a proinflammatory cytokine, primarily produced by Th17 cells, that plays a pivotal role in host defense, recruitment of neutrophils, and the orchestration of tissue inflammation through the induction of chemokines, cytokines, and antimicrobial peptides[4][7]. IL-17A is a homodimer, but it can also form a functional heterodimer with Interleukin-17F, termed Interleukin-17AF (IL-17A/F), which shares similar receptor binding and functional properties[2][6]. Both IL-17A and IL-17AF signal by binding to a cell surface receptor complex composed of IL-17RA and IL-17RC subunits, leading to activation of NF-κB, MAPKs, and downstream genes involved in inflammation and immunity[2][3][4]. These cytokines are key targets in autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, with monoclonal antibodies against IL-17A or IL-17A/F demonstrating clinical efficacy in conditions like psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis[4][6]. Therapeutic inhibition of IL-17A or the IL-17RA receptor reduces inflammation but increases susceptibility to certain infections, particularly those involving mucosal surfaces.

Other names

IL-17AIL-17IL17AIL-17A/F (for the heterodimer)Interleukin-17A/F heterodimerIL17AF

Neutralization of IL-17A (or IL-17A/F) action by monoclonal antibody binding, blocking interaction with IL-17 receptor complex Inhibition of downstream inflammatory signaling by blocking ligand-receptor engagement