IL-18 Flashcards
Why has IL-18 been associated with inhibition of tumor development?
Because of its effects on cell motility and immune response.
Several studies link glioma formation with inflammation generated by activated microglia mainly by focusing on the complicated and DUAL role of …?
IL-18.
What further enhances the importance of IL-18?
The high percentage of innate macrophages found in GBM cultures.
What is the 1st role of IL-18?
- Influences the motility of glial cells.
2. Increases their aggressiveness via regulation of NO/cGMP/PKG and is consequently associated with tumor grade.
What is the molecular mechanism of the 1st role of IL-18?
This action is being held by the autocrine binding of IL-18 to microglia cells which potentiates the migratory effects and the secretory products of microglia over glioma neoplastic cells.
The initial secretion of IL-18 by activated microglia is further enhanced by the presence of extracellular matrix proteins like:
- Vitronectin.
2. Fibronectin.
What is the 2nd role of IL-18?
Paradoxically, it overpowers the immune response against glioma by stimulating secretion of IFN-gamma which in turn causes proliferation of T cells and at the same time the augmented activity of NK and CD8 cells which mediate cytotoxic immunity.
