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Interleukin-17

Meaning

Interleukin-17 (IL-17) is a pro-inflammatory cytokine, a type of signaling protein, primarily produced by a specialized subset of T helper cells known as Th17 cells, playing a critical role in host defense against extracellular pathogens and fungal infections. However, its excessive or dysregulated production is strongly implicated in the pathogenesis of various chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, including several affecting the endocrine system. The IL-17 pathway is a key target in immunomodulatory therapies.