concept

IL-13

IL-13 was first recognized for its effects on B cells and monocytes, where it upregulated class II expression, promoted IgE class switching and inhibited inflammatory cytokine production. It was also thought to be functionally redundant with IL-4. However, studies conducted with knockout mice, neutralizing antibodies, and novel antagonists demonstrate that IL-13 possesses several unique effector functions that distinguish it from IL-4. Resistance to most gastrointestinal nematodes is mediated by type-2 cytokine responses, in which IL-13 plays a dominant role. By regulating cell-mediated immunity, IL-13 modulates resistance to intracellular organisms including Leishmania major, Leishmania mexicana, and Listeria monocytogenes. In the lung, IL-13 is the central mediator of allergic asthma, where it regulates eosinophilic inflammation, mucus secretion, and airway hyperresponsiveness.

Ref:
Wynn TA. IL-13 effector functions. Annu Rev Immunol. 2003;21:425-56. doi: 10.1146/annurev.immunol.21.120601.141142. Epub 2001 Dec 19. PMID: 12615888.

20 confidence points
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Added on Jun 1, 2023 by Barbara Van De Keer

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