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The role of interleukin-17 in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis

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Abstract

Interleukin (IL)-17 (also known as IL-17A), the signature cytokine of the newly described T helper 17 (Th17) cell population, has been implicated in the pathogenesis of numerous autoimmune diseases including rheumatoid arthritis. IL-17 is the founding member of a new subclass of cytokines that have highly proinflammatory properties. Studies in rodents and mammalian cell culture systems, as well as clinical settings, support a role for IL-17 in promoting rheumatoid arthritis. This article discusses the history of the discovery of Th17 cells, the potential mechanisms of action of IL-17 in autoimmunity, and perspectives for IL-17-targeted cytokine therapy.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA

    Sarah L. Gaffen

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  1. Sarah L. Gaffen
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Correspondence to Sarah L. Gaffen.

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Gaffen, S.L. The role of interleukin-17 in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis. Curr Rheumatol Rep 11, 365–370 (2009). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11926-009-0052-y

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