Skip to main content

IL-18

OverviewProducts

Function

A proinflammatory cytokine primarily involved in polarized T-helper 1 (Th1) cell and natural killer (NK) cell immune responses. Upon binding to IL18R1 and IL18RAP, forms a signaling ternary complex which activates NF-kappa-B, triggering synthesis of inflammatory mediators. Synergizes with IL12/interleukin-12 to induce IFNG synthesis from T-helper 1 (Th1) cells and natural killer (NK) cells.

Post-translational modifications

The pro-IL-18 precursor is processed by CASP1 or CASP4 to yield the active form.

Sequence similarities

Belongs to the IL-1 family.

Cellular localization

  • Cytoplasm
  • Secreted
  • The secretion is dependent on protein unfolding and facilitated by the cargo receptor TMED10; it results in protein translocation from the cytoplasm into the ERGIC (endoplasmic reticulum-Golgi intermediate compartment) followed by vesicle entry and secretion.

Alternative names

  • Interleukin-18
  • IL-18
  • Interferon gamma-inducing factor
  • Interleukin-1 gamma
  • IFN-gamma-inducing factor
  • IL-1 gamma
  • Igif
  • Il18

Database links

Target type

Proteins

Primary research area

Immunology & Infectious Disease

Other research areas

  • Immuno-oncology

Molecular weight

22135Da