IL-36 cytokines and gut immunity.

Interleukin 36 (IL-36) constitutes a group of cytokines that belong to the IL-1 superfamily. Emerging evidence has suggested a role of IL-36 in the pathogenesis of many inflammatory disorders. Intriguingly, in the gastrointestinal tract, IL-36 has a rather complex function.

A cytokine network involving IL-36γ, IL-23, and IL-22 promotes antimicrobial defense and recovery from intestinal barrier damage.

The gut epithelium acts to separate host immune cells from unrestricted interactions with the microbiota and other environmental stimuli. In response to epithelial damage or dysfunction, immune cells are activated to produce interleukin (IL)-22, which is involved in repair and protection of barrier surfaces. However, the specific pathways leading to IL-22 and associated antimicrobial peptide (AMP) production in response to intestinal tissue damage remain incompletely understood.