IL-35

Interleukin-35 (IL-35) is a heterodimeric anti-inflammatory cytokine of the IL-12 family, uniquely composed of the IL-12α (p35) and EBI3 (IL-27β) subunits. It is not produced by conventional antigen-presenting cells but is a signature mediator of regulatory T cells (Tregs), especially mouse Treg cells that constitutively express both subunits, and also by regulatory B cells and placental trophoblasts. IL-35 signals through two receptor pairs-IL-12Rβ2/gp130 or IL-12Rβ2/IL-12Rβ1-activating STAT1/STAT3/STAT4 heterodimers, a mode of STAT activation unique among cytokines. It suppresses effector T-cell proliferation and Th17 differentiation, converts conventional T cells into IL-35-producing induced Treg (iTr35) cells, dampens autoimmune neuroinflammation and colitis, and curbs antitumor immunity. Consequently, IL-35 simultaneously offers therapeutic promise for autoimmunity and transplant rejection, and represents an obstacle in cancer immunotherapy.