Interleukin-23 subunit alpha (IL-23p19)

Interleukin-23 subunit alpha (IL-23p19) is a key component of the heterodimeric cytokine Interleukin-23, which also includes the p40 subunit shared with Interleukin-12 (UniProt Q9NPF7) [1]. The p19 subunit is unique to IL-23, allowing for targeted therapeutic strategies that do not interfere with IL-12-mediated Th1 immunity (PubMed PMID: 28135913) [2]. Biologically, IL-23 is essential for the survival and expansion of Th17 cells, which are central to the development of chronic inflammation and autoimmunity (PubMed PMID: 30103140) [3]. Overexpression of IL-23p19 is strongly associated with the pathogenesis of plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis (StatPearls NBK560819) [4]. Drugs targeting this subunit, such as guselkumab and risankizumab, work by neutralizing IL-23 activity, thereby reducing the production of downstream pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-17 and IL-22 (FDA Label: Tremfya) [5]. These therapies have revolutionized the treatment of moderate-to-severe autoimmune conditions by providing high levels of clinical clearance with a manageable safety profile (PubMed PMID: 31154334) [6].

Other names

IL-23 subunit alphaIL-23p19IL23AInterleukin-23 subunit p19SGRF

Selective inhibition of the p19 subunit of interleukin-23, preventing its binding to the IL-23 receptor and subsequently blocking the activation of the Th17-mediated inflammatory pathway.