Role of interleukin 18 in rheumatoid arthritis

Mediators produced by innate immune response cells such as macrophages can profoundly influence adaptive immunity. Recent studies have shown that interleukin (IL) 18 has an influential role in inflammatory response. Recent data are presented illustrating the importance of IL18 in the induction and perpetuation of chronic inflammation during experimental and clinical rheumatoid synovitis. These findings suggest that antagonists to IL18 may have a role in the treatment of organ specific autoimmune diseases