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Interleukin 12 a Key Immunoregulatory Cytokine in Infection Applications
AbstractInterleukin 12 (termed IL-12p70 and commonly designated IL-12) is an important immunoregulatory cytokine that is produced mainly by antigen-presenting cells. The expression of IL-12 during infection regulates innate responses and determines the type of adaptive immune responses. IL-12 induces interferon-γ (IFN-γ) production and triggers CD4+ T cells to differentiate into type 1 T helper (Th1) cells. Studies have suggested that IL-12 could play a vital role in treating many diseases, such as viral and bacterial infections and cancers. The unique heterodimeric structure, which IL-12 shares with its family members including IL-23, IL-27, and IL-35, has recently brought more attention to understanding the mechanisms that regulate the functions of IL-12. This article describes the structure and biological activities of IL-12 in both the innate and adaptive arms of the immune system, and discusses the applications of IL-12 in treating and preventing infections.
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Hamza, T.; Barnett, J.B.; Li, B. Interleukin 12 a Key Immunoregulatory Cytokine in Infection Applications. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2010, 11, 789-806.View more citation formats
Hamza T, Barnett JB, Li B. Interleukin 12 a Key Immunoregulatory Cytokine in Infection Applications. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 2010; 11(3):789-806.Chicago/Turabian Style
Hamza, Therwa; Barnett, John B.; Li, Bingyun. 2010. "Interleukin 12 a Key Immunoregulatory Cytokine in Infection Applications." Int. J. Mol. Sci. 11, no. 3: 789-806.
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