Interleukin-22 (IL-22) (IL-22)

Interleukin-22 (IL-22) is the signature cytokine produced by the T helper 22 (Th22) cell subset, playing a pivotal role in the communication between the immune system and epithelial tissues (Eyerich et al., 2009; Wolk et al., 2004). As a member of the IL-10 cytokine family, IL-22 signals through a heterodimeric receptor complex consisting of IL-22R1 and IL-10R2, which is primarily expressed on non-hematopoietic cells such as keratinocytes, hepatocytes, and intestinal epithelial cells (Sabat et al., 2014). Its primary biological functions include the induction of antimicrobial peptides (e.g., beta-defensins), promotion of cell proliferation, and enhancement of tissue repair mechanisms, which are crucial for maintaining barrier integrity at mucosal surfaces (Zheng et al., 2007). In pathological contexts, dysregulated IL-22 signaling is a key driver of chronic inflammatory skin diseases like psoriasis and atopic dermatitis, where it promotes keratinocyte hyperplasia and inhibits differentiation (Guttman-Yassky et al., 2018). Conversely, IL-22 has protective roles in inflammatory bowel disease and acute liver injury by promoting epithelial regeneration (Lindemans et al., 2015). Therapeutic strategies include the use of neutralizing monoclonal antibodies, such as fezakinumab, for inflammatory conditions, and recombinant IL-22-Fc fusion proteins (e.g., efmarodocokin alfa) to promote healing in regenerative medicine (Tang et al., 2019).

Other names

IL-TIFInterleukin-T-cell-inducible factorT-cell-derived inducible cytokine-likeZcyto18Cytokine Zcyto18

Neutralization of IL-22 ligand to inhibit downstream STAT3 signaling; Activation of IL-22 receptor complex to promote tissue regeneration