Interleukin 18 in Immune-mediated rheumatic diseases and COVID-19

Abstract

Immune-mediated rheumatic diseases (IMRDs), based on the leading mechanisms of pathogenesis, are conditionally classified into autoimmune, autoinflammatory, and «mixed pattern». In the spectrum of cytokines involved in the development of the immunopathological process in IMRDs, the “pro-inflammatory” cytokine interleukin (IL) 18, a member of the IL-1 family, plays an important role in the regulation of T-helper (Th) 1-, Th2- and Th17- types of immune response that induces the synthesis of interferon (IFN) γ, other pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines. The possibility of determining the concentration of IL-18 in IMRDs is discussed to improve diagnosis, identify subtypes of diseases, and predict the effectiveness of pharmacotherapy. IL-18 is a promising target for anticytokine therapy, primarily in patients with high activity of inflammation associated with hyperactivation of innate immunity.