Internal medicine

Receptor

Agonist

Disease

Pathogenesis

Biology

Gene

Proinflammatory cytokine

Immunology

Inflammation

Immunity

Regulator

Genetics

Medicine

Immune system

SUPERFAMILY

International Journal of Molecular Sciences

The IL-1 superfamily of cytokines is a central regulator of immunity and inflammation. The family is composed of 11 cytokines (with agonist, antagonist, and anti-inflammatory properties) and 10 receptors, all tightly regulated through decoy receptor, receptor antagonists, and signaling inhibitors. Inflammation not only is an important physiological response against infection and injury but also plays a central role in atherosclerosis development. Several clinical association studies along with experimental studies have implicated the IL-1 superfamily of cytokines and its receptors in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease. Here, we summarize the key features of the IL-1 family, its role in immunity and disease, and how it helps shape the development of atherosclerosis.

The IL-1 Family and Its Role in Atherosclerosis