Immune modulation with interleukin-21

Neela S. Bhave, William E. Carson

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

12 Scopus citations

Abstract

Interleukin 21 (IL-21) is produced by activated CD4+ T cells. The IL-21R shares the common receptor gamma-chain with IL-2, IL-4, IL-7, IL-9, and IL-15, is widely expressed on immune cells, and mediates a variety of effects on the immune system. IL-21 enhances the proliferation, antigen-induced activation, clonal expansion, IFN-γ production, and cytotoxicity of NK cells and T cells. The antitumor actions of IL-21 have been variously attributed to NK cell and CD8+ T cell cytotoxicity, CD4+ T cell help, NKT cells, and the antiangiogenic properties induced by IFN-γ secretion. In clinical trials IL-21 has been well tolerated and induces a unique pattern of immune activation. IL-21 is therefore an excellent candidate for use in immune therapy.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationCytokine Therapies Novel Approaches for Clinical Indications
PublisherBlackwell Publishing Inc.
Pages39-46
Number of pages8
ISBN (Print)9781573317832
DOIs
StatePublished - 2009

Publication series

NameAnnals of the New York Academy of Sciences
Volume1182
ISSN (Print)0077-8923
ISSN (Electronic)1749-6632

Keywords

  • Innate immunity
  • Interleukin-21
  • NK cells
  • Tumor immunology

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