Description
Interleukin-19 (IL-19) is a cytokine belonging to the interleukin family. Structurally, IL-19 is grouped into the IL-10 sub-family, which also includes IL-20, IL-22, IL-24, and IL-26. In contrast to IL-10, which exists as a homodimer, IL-19 is stable and active as a monomer in vivo. IL-19 functions through the receptor complex composed of IL-20 Receptor α and IL-20 Receptor β, which is also utilized by IL-20 and IL-24. IL-19 is produced by active monocytes and stimulated synergistically by IL-17 and IL-13. The functions of IL-19 are to promote the development and function of Th2 cells and to enhance the production of Th2 cytokines. IL-19 is implicated in aging, vascular disease, Type I diabetes, and rheumatoid arthritis.