Interleukin-23 subunit alpha (IL-23p19) (IL-23p19)

Interleukin-23 (IL-23) is a heterodimeric pro-inflammatory cytokine consisting of two subunits: p19 (encoded by IL23A) and p40 (shared with IL-12) (UniProt Q9NPF7). The p19 subunit is unique to IL-23, making it a highly specific therapeutic target for modulating the IL-23/IL-17 signaling axis (PubMed: 30115566). Produced primarily by activated antigen-presenting cells like macrophages and dendritic cells, IL-23 is essential for the survival and expansion of Th17 cells, which secrete inflammatory mediators such as IL-17 and IL-22 (PubMed: 28434358). Dysregulation of this pathway is a key driver in the pathogenesis of several chronic inflammatory and autoimmune disorders, including plaque psoriasis and inflammatory bowel disease (PubMed: 31601555). Therapeutic monoclonal antibodies targeting the p19 subunit, such as Guselkumab and Risankizumab, effectively block the binding of IL-23 to its receptor (IL-23R), thereby suppressing downstream inflammatory cascades (FDA Label: Tremfya). This targeted approach offers high efficacy with a potentially favorable safety profile compared to broader immunosuppressants by preserving IL-12-mediated immune responses (PubMed: 29141568).

Other names

IL-23AInterleukin-23 subunit p19SGRFIL-23 subunit alpha

Selective inhibition of the IL-23/IL-17 axis by binding to the p19 subunit of the IL-23 cytokine, which prevents its interaction with the IL-23 receptor (IL-23R) and subsequent downstream signaling.