T helper 1-related cytokines (Th1 cytokines)

T helper 1 (Th1)-related cytokines are a functional group of signaling proteins, primarily including interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma), interleukin-2 (IL-2), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), that coordinate cell-mediated immune responses (StatPearls, NBK532303). These cytokines are secreted by Th1 cells to activate macrophages and promote the clearance of intracellular pathogens, such as viruses and bacteria (UniProt P01579, P01375). While essential for host defense, the dysregulation and overproduction of Th1 cytokines are central to the pathogenesis of various autoimmune and chronic inflammatory diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, and psoriasis (PubMed 11544348). Consequently, these molecules are major therapeutic targets; for example, TNF-alpha inhibitors like adalimumab and infliximab are widely used to treat systemic inflammation by neutralizing the cytokine before it can bind to its receptor. Other therapies, such as emapalumab, specifically target IFN-gamma to treat primary hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis. However, inhibiting these cytokines carries significant safety risks, most notably an increased susceptibility to serious opportunistic infections and the potential reactivation of latent tuberculosis.

Other names

Type 1 cytokinesTh1-type cytokinesPro-inflammatory Th1 cytokines

Neutralization of soluble cytokines or blockade of their specific receptors using monoclonal antibodies or fusion proteins to inhibit pro-inflammatory signaling cascades such as the JAK-STAT or NF-kappaB pathways (PubMed 11544348, StatPearls NBK532303).