What Are Interleukins?

By jolene

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5. Interleukins 11, 12, and 13

Interleukin 11 is thought to inhibit proliferation and apoptosis in epithelial cells, inhibit production of macrophage mediators, and activating osteoclasts. Interleukin 12 induces and maintains T-helper 1 cellular immune responses. This includes defense against intracellular pathogens such as measles virus, toxoplasma, human immunodeficiency virus 1, and leishmania. It is also crucial in the enhancement of natural killer cells. The suppression of interleukin 12 in diseases such as multiple sclerosis and inflammatory bowel disease can be beneficial. Interleukin 13 has been thought to be important in the regulation of immune and inflammatory responses by inhibiting the production of inflammatory proteins.