[Proinflammatory cytokine interleukin-17 and its role in pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis]

Abstract

This is a review concerning the role of interleukin-17, a proinflammatory cytokine, produced by activated memory CD4+ T cells, in pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis. As interleukin-17 shares properties with IL-1 and TNF-alpha, it may induce joint inflammation and bone and cartilage destruction. This cytokine is found in synovial fluids of patients with rheumatoid arthritis, and produced by rheumatoid arthritis synovium. It increases IL-6 production, induces collagen degradation and decreases collagen synthesis by synovium and cartilage and proteoglycan synthesis in cartilage. Interleukin-17 is also able to increase bone destruction and reduce its formation. Blocking of interleukin-17 with specific inhibitors provides a protective inhibition of cartilage and bone degradation.