IL-1RA

Interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1RA) is a naturally occurring cytokine that inhibits the activity of interleukin-1 (IL-1) by binding to the interleukin-1 receptor (IL-1R) without eliciting a signal. This makes IL-1RA an important regulator of the immune response, inflammation, and autoimmune diseases.

Structure and Function

IL-1RA is a member of the interleukin-1 family and is encoded by the IL1RN gene located on chromosome 2 in humans. The protein is produced by various cell types, including monocytes, macrophages, neutrophils, and epithelial cells.

IL-1RA functions by competitively inhibiting the binding of IL-1α and IL-1β to the IL-1 receptor, thereby preventing the pro-inflammatory effects mediated by these cytokines. Unlike IL-1α and IL-1β, IL-1RA does not initiate signal transduction, thus acting as a natural anti-inflammatory agent.

Clinical Significance

IL-1RA has therapeutic applications in treating inflammatory conditions. The recombinant form of IL-1RA, known as anakinra, is used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, cryopyrin-associated periodic syndromes (CAPS), and other inflammatory diseases. Anakinra is administered via subcutaneous injection and works by blocking the effects of IL-1, thereby reducing inflammation and pain.

Deficiency in IL-1RA can lead to a rare autoinflammatory condition known as Deficiency of Interleukin-1 Receptor Antagonist (DIRA), characterized by severe systemic inflammation, skin and bone lesions, and other symptoms. Treatment with recombinant IL-1RA can alleviate these symptoms.

Research and Development

Ongoing research is exploring the role of IL-1RA in various diseases, including type 2 diabetes, atherosclerosis, and gout. Studies are also investigating the potential of IL-1RA as a biomarker for disease activity and response to therapy.

Also see

• Interleukin-1
• Cytokine
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Anakinra
• Autoimmune disease