Journal of Clinical and Cellular Immunology
Open Access

Abstract

Interleukin 10 (IL-10) Regulatory Cytokine and its Clinical Consequences

Enoch Bijjiga and Ashley T Martino

IL-10 involvement in disease progression continues to be evaluated. Through these studies it has become evident that the role of IL-10 in immunological conditions encompasses a large range of disorders. IL-10 deficiencies can lead to Th1 hypersensitivities i.e. Celiac’s disease and autoimmue disorders i.e. type 1 diabetes (TID). Conversely, increased IL-10 results in Th2 related hypersensitivities i.e. allergic dermatitis and autoimmune disorders i.e. systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). These polar conditions are related to increases in either Th1 cytokines or Th2 cytokines respectively. With the dominant role of IL-10 being regulatory, clinical consequences can result from IL-10 related immuno-suppression. These enhanced IL-10 regulatory responses are related to improper clearance of pathogens and tumor cells, resulting in chronic infections and tumor development. Interestingly, HPV, HCV, HBV and other common chronic pathogens can persist even with normal levels of IL-10 but can be cleared by inhibiting IL-10 function.