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Interleukin-26 (IL-26)
- Target
- IL-26
- Molecular classification
- Cytokine, Interleukin, IL-10 family member
01
Overview
Interleukin-26 is a cytokine predominantly produced by activated T helper 17 (Th17) cells that acts via a receptor complex of IL-20R1 and IL-10R2 to induce downstream signaling through the STAT1 and STAT3 pathways[1][2]. IL-26 is unique among interleukins for its direct antimicrobial activity and its ability to bind extracellular DNA and act as a carrier molecule, linking cell damage to the activation of innate and adaptive immunity[4]. IL-26 is involved in host defense, inflammation, and regulation of epithelial barriers, with upregulation observed in autoimmune diseases (such as multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis) and chronic inflammation[3][4]. While seen as a potential therapeutic target, there20are currently no approved drugs specifically targeting IL-26 or its receptor[4].
- Other names
- IL26AK155Protein AK155Interleukin 26IL-26
02
Mechanism of action
Neutralization of IL-26 protein (therapeutic antibody); Blockade of IL-26 receptor complex (antagonism of IL-20R1 or IL-10R2 subunits); Inhibition of downstream signaling (Jak/STAT inhibitors)[2][4]
03
Biological functions
Immune response modulation[1][2][4]Signal transduction (STAT1/STAT3 pathway activation)[1][3]Induction of proinflammatory cytokines (e.g., IL-8, IL-10)[1][4]Regulation of epithelial cells and blood–brain barrier function[1][3]Antimicrobial (direct activity against bacteria)[4]Carrier for extracellular DNA (links extracellular DNA to immune responses)[4]
04
Disease associations
Inflammation (often upregulated in inflammatory states)[4]Autoimmune disease (notably multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease)[3][4]Infection (antimicrobial properties, role in host defense)[4]Other (psoriasis, chronic inflammatory conditions)[4]
05
Safety considerations
Potential suppression of host defenses (antimicrobial activity of IL-26)Risk of immunosuppression with chronic inhibitionOff-target cytokine modulation risks[4]
06
Interacting drugs
None approved or in late-stage trials as direct IL-26 inhibitors or agonists as of current knowledge; investigational agents or biologics may be in preclinical development[4]
07
Biomarkers
Serum/plasma levels of IL-26 as biomarkers for disease activity or patient selection in autoimmune/inflammatory conditions[4]Increased IL-26 expression in affected tissues (e.g., synovium in rheumatoid arthritis)[4]
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