The role of IL-18 in Behcet's disease; a potential therapeutic target

Immunopathophysiology and clinical impact of uveitis in inflammatory rheumatic diseases: An update

“…HSP-65, Heat shock protein 65; TCR, T-cell receptor; TLR, toll-like receptor; MHC-II, major histocompatibility complex II; CD, cluster of differentiation; APC, antigen-presenting cell; IL-, interleukin-; TNF-α, tumour necrosis alpha; IFN-γ, interferon gamma; Th, T helper cell; ROS, reactive oxygen species; NKT, natural killer T cells other through IL-18 secretion. 51 Consequently, the reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated by activated neutrophils act as final effectors of the vascular endothelial cell dysfunction and thrombosis 52 (Figure 1).…”

“…Eventually, pro‐inflammatory cytokines play a role in the priming of neutrophils which in turn aggregate in inflammatory infiltrates forming the hypopyon and activating each other through IL‐18 secretion. 51 Consequently, the reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated by activated neutrophils act as final effectors of the vascular endothelial cell dysfunction and thrombosis 52 (Figure 1 ).…”

Interleukin‐18 is a sensitive marker of flare initiation in Adamantiades–Behçet disease

“…In conclusion, IL‐18, also known as IFN‐γ‐inducing factor, 8 may be a possible marker of flare initiation in ABD, especially in younger patients (< 40 years), and in those with more severe flare signs (genital ulcers, erythema nodosum or uveitis) compared with patients with OAU alone or OAU with folliculitis. IL‐18 is also a possible future treatment target.…”

“…It belongs to the IL‐1 superfamily, shows functional similarities to IL‐12 and is mainly produced by macrophages. In combination with IL‐12 it acts on CD4 + CD8 + T cells and natural killer cells, inducing IFN‐γ production 7,8 . IL‐18 was elevated at flare initiation, although all patients except one received an immunomodulatory or immunosuppressive treatment.…”

“…In addition, CRP was confirmed as a better marker for inflammation in ABD than ESR. Further investigations will elucidate whether regular measurement of IL‐18 should be recommended to predict imminent systemic complications, and whether IL‐18 might be a therapeutic target for ABD 8 …”