Interleukin-36 alpha (IL-36α)

Interleukin-36 alpha (IL-36α) is a pro-inflammatory cytokine belonging to the interleukin-1 (IL-1) family and is encoded by the IL36A gene. Along with IL-36β and IL-36γ, it acts as an agonist at the interleukin-36 receptor (IL-36R), forming a signaling complex with IL-1 receptor accessory protein (IL-1RAcP). Activation of this receptor complex triggers intracellular signaling cascades involving the nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways, culminating in the induction of a variety of inflammatory mediators. IL-36α is primarily expressed by epithelial cells in barrier tissues (such as skin, lung, and intestine) and immune cells. Its physiological roles include regulating immune and inflammatory responses at barrier sites and contributing to tissue homeostasis. Dysregulation of IL-36α signaling is implicated in inflammatory diseases such as psoriasis and has growing evidence for roles in other autoimmune conditions and possibly cancer, supporting its candidacy as a therapeutic target for modulation in human disease[1][2]. Experimental antagonists (antibodies, peptides) are under investigation for inflammatory skin pathologies[2][3].

Other names

Interleukin-36αIL36AIL-1 epsilonIL-1F6IL1F6FIL1 epsilonFIL1EInterleukin-1 epsilonInterleukin-1 family member 6

Antagonists block IL-36 receptor (IL-36R), inhibiting IL-36α signaling and downstream pro-inflammatory pathways (NF-κB, MAPK)[2][3].