Viral interleukin-10 (vIL-10)

Viral interleukin-10 (vIL-10) refers to a class of viral-encoded homologs of the human anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10, primarily produced by large DNA viruses such as Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and Human Cytomegalovirus (HCMV). These proteins, often termed "virokines," mimic the structure and function of host IL-10 to subvert the host immune system, facilitating viral persistence and immune evasion. By binding to the host IL-10 receptor complex (IL-10R1 and IL-10R2), vIL-10 triggers the JAK-STAT3 signaling pathway, leading to the suppression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and the downregulation of antigen-presenting molecules. Beyond its role in chronic infection, vIL-10 is implicated in the pathogenesis of virus-associated malignancies, such as Burkitt's lymphoma, and autoimmune conditions like systemic lupus erythematosus. Conversely, the potent immunosuppressive properties of vIL-10 have made it a candidate for therapeutic development in treating chronic inflammatory diseases and preventing transplant rejection. Current research focuses on neutralizing vIL-10 to combat viral evasion or utilizing engineered vIL-10 variants as targeted anti-inflammatory agents.

Other names

BCRF1cmvIL-10UL111Aorf virus IL-10ovIL-10Viral IL-10 homologCSIF homolog

Neutralization of viral IL-10 to restore host immune response; Agonism of the IL-10 receptor (IL-10R1/IL-10R2) to induce anti-inflammatory signaling