IL-26 inhibits hepatitis C virus replication in hepatocytes.

Background & Aims: Interleukin-26 (IL-26) is a proinflammatory cytokine that has properties atypical for a cytokine, such as direct antibacterial activity and DNA-binding capacity. We previously observed an accumulation of IL-26 in fibrotic and inflammatory lesions in the livers of patients with chronic HCV infection and showed that infiltrating CD3 lymphocytes were the principal source of IL-26. Surprisingly, IL-26 was also detected in the cytoplasm of hepatocytes from HCV-infected patients, even though these cells do not produce IL-26, even when infected with HCV.

Serum Interleukin-26 Is a New Biomarker for Disease Activity Assessment in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus.

Objective: Interleukin-26 (IL-26) has a unique ability to activate innate immune cells due to its binding to circulating double-stranded DNA. High levels of IL-26 have been reported in patients with chronic inflammation. We aimed to investigate IL-26 levels in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

IL-26, a Cytokine With Roles in Extracellular DNA-Induced Inflammation and Microbial Defense.

Interleukin 26 (IL-26) is the most recently identified member of the IL-20 cytokine subfamily, and is a novel mediator of inflammation overexpressed in activated or transformed T cells. Novel properties have recently been assigned to IL-26, owing to its non-conventional cationic, and amphipathic features. IL-26 binds to DNA released from damaged cells and, as a carrier molecule for extracellular DNA, links DNA to inflammation.

IL-26 Confers Proinflammatory Properties to Extracellular DNA.

In physiological conditions, self-DNA released by dying cells is not detected by intracellular DNA sensors. In chronic inflammatory disorders, unabated inflammation has been associated with a break in innate immune tolerance to self-DNA. However, extracellular DNA has to complex with DNA-binding molecules to gain access to intracellular DNA sensors.