Interleukin-34

Interleukin-34 (IL-34) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the IL34 gene. It is a member of the interleukin family, a group of cytokines with important roles in the immune system.

Function

Interleukin-34 is a cytokine that promotes the differentiation and viability of monocytes and macrophages through the colony-stimulating factor-1 receptor (CSF-1R). IL-34 and another ligand, colony-stimulating factor-1, have been shown to function redundantly in the differentiation of monocytes and macrophages. However, IL-34 and CSF-1 are expressed in different tissues and have different roles in inflammatory diseases and cancer.

Clinical significance

Interleukin-34 has been associated with inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and chronic periodontitis. It has also been implicated in various types of cancer, including colorectal cancer and hepatocellular carcinoma. In cancer, IL-34 can promote tumor growth and metastasis by enhancing angiogenesis and tumor-associated macrophage infiltration.

External links

• IL34 gene at NCBI
• IL-34 at UniProt