Interleukin 11

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Interleukin 11 (IL-11) is a multifunctional cytokine first isolated in 1990 from bone marrow-derived stromal cells. It is a key regulator of multiple events in hemtaopoiesis, most notably the stimulation of megakaryocyte maturation. It is also known under the names Adipogenesis inhibitory factor (AGIF) and Oprelvekin.

Compared to other interleukins, IL-11 relatively under-characterized.

The human IL-11 gene, consisting of 5 exons and 4 introns, is located on chromosome 19. IL-11 is a member of the IL-6-type cytokine family, distinguished based on their use of a common transmembrane signal transducer.

Functions

IL-11 has been demonstrated to improve platelet recovery after chemotherapy-induced thrombocytopenia, induce acute phase proteins, modulate antigen-antibody responses, participate in the regulation of bone cell proliferation and differentiation and could be use as a therapeutic for osteoporosis. Besides from lymphopoietic/hematopoietic and osteotrophic properties, it has functions in many tissues such as brain, gut and testis. IL-11 stimulates the growth of certain lymphocytes and, in the murine model, stimulates an increase in the cortical thickness and strength of long bones.

Interleukin 11

Functions

References

Further reading