Abstract
First reports of interleukin 27 (IL-27), its receptor (IL-27R), their individual components and signaling pathways appeared approximately 20 years ago, however, its role and function in the immune system in both physiological and pathological conditions is still not fully defined. IL-27 is produced by activated antigen presenting cells (APC).
It binds to IL-27R, which is expressed on both immune and non-immune cells. The activity of this cytokine regulates adaptive and innate immunity and plays an important role especially in the differentiation of CD4 + T cells.
A detailed examination of the biological role and the effect of IL-27 on individual cellular populations could lead to a better understanding of the pathophysiology of autoimmune diseases, the role of cytokine signaling in their development, or the identification of potential therapeutic targets.