Yin and yang of interleukin-17 in host immunity to infection [version 1; referees: 2 approved]

• Main Authors: Shibali Das, Shabaana Khader
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: F1000 Research Ltd 2017-05-01
• Series: F1000Research
• Subjects: Allergy & Hypersensitivity; Autoimmunity; Cellular Microbiology & Pathogenesis; Genetics of the Immune System; Immune & Inflammatory Rheumatic Diseases (incl. Arthritis); Immune Response; Immunity to Infections; Immunomodulation; Immunopharmacology & Hematologic Pharmacology; Innate Immunity; Leukocyte Signaling & Gene Expression; Medical Microbiology; Parasitology; Virology
• Online Access: https://f1000research.com/articles/6-741/v1

The interleukin-17 (IL-17) family cytokines, such as IL-17A and IL-17F, play important protective roles in host immune response to a variety of infections such as bacterial, fungal, parasitic, and viral. The IL-17R signaling and downstream pathways mediate induction of proinflammatory molecules which participate in control of these pathogens. However, the production of IL-17 can also mediate pathology and inflammation associated with infections. In this review, we will discuss the yin-and-yang roles of IL-17 in host immunity to pathogens.