Description
Interleukin-33 (IL-33) is a proinflammatory cytokine that belongs to the IL-1 family. IL-33 is expressed in a variety of cells, including epithelial and endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells, macrophages and fibroblasts. The primary receptors for IL-33 are ST2 and IL-1 receptor accessory protein (IL-1RAcP), both of which belong to the IL-1 receptor family. IL-33 is localized to the nucleus of resting cells where it binds to chromatin in the H2A-H2B histone complex as a transcriptional suppressor. IL-33 is secreted by cells during injury which induces a T-helper 2 type inflammatory response. Evidence suggests IL-33 plays a role in autoimmune disease. IL-33’s interaction with ST2 can drive allergic pathology and IL-33 has been reported to play a role in the development of rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus.