What Is IL-1 for? The Functions of Interleukin-1 Across Evolution

Interleukin-1 is a cytokine with potent inflammatory and immune-amplifying effects, mainly produced by macrophages during defensive reactions. In mammals, IL-1 is a superfamily of eleven structurally similar proteins, all involved in inflammation or its control, which mainly act through binding to specific receptors on the plasma membrane of target cells. IL-1 receptors are also a family of ten structurally similar transmembrane proteins that assemble in heterocomplexes. In addition to their innate immune/inflammatory effects, the physiological role of IL-1 family cytokines seems to be linked to the development of adaptive immunity in vertebrates. We will discuss why IL-1 developed in vertebrates and what is its physiological role, as a basis for understanding when and how it can be involved in the initiation and establishment of pathologies.

Automated summary

Interleukin-1 (IL-1) is a cytokine that plays a significant role in inflammation and immune response, primarily produced by macrophages during defensive reactions. It belongs to a superfamily of structurally similar proteins and acts through binding to specific receptors on the plasma membrane of target cells. IL-1 family cytokines not only have innate immune and inflammatory effects but also appear to be involved in the development of adaptive immunity in vertebrates.