IL-36 in chronic inflammation and fibrosis - bridging the gap?

J Clin Invest. 2021 Jan 19;131(2):e144336. doi: 10.1172/JCI144336.

Abstract

IL-36 is a member of the IL-1 superfamily and consists of three agonists and one receptor antagonist (IL-36Ra). The three endogenous agonists, IL-36α, -β, and -γ, act primarily as proinflammatory cytokines, and their signaling through the IL-36 receptor (IL-36R) promotes immune cell infiltration and secretion of inflammatory and chemotactic molecules. However, IL-36 signaling also fosters secretion of profibrotic soluble mediators, suggesting a role in fibrotic disorders. IL-36 isoforms and IL-36 have been implicated in inflammatory diseases including psoriasis, arthritis, inflammatory bowel diseases, and allergic rhinitis. Moreover, IL-36 has been connected to fibrotic disorders affecting the kidney, lung, and intestines. This review summarizes the expression, cellular source, and function of IL-36 in inflammation and fibrosis in various organs, and proposes that IL-36 modulation may prove valuable in preventing or treating inflammatory and fibrotic diseases and may reveal a mechanistic link between inflammation and fibrosis.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Fibrosis
  • Gene Expression Regulation*
  • Humans
  • Interleukin-1 / biosynthesis*
  • Organ Specificity

Substances

  • IL36A protein, human
  • IL36B protein, human
  • IL36G protein, human
  • Interleukin-1