IL-33, an IL-1 family member, is expressed by many cell types and can regulate gene transcription. IL-33 is released upon cell necrosis and the precursor form is enzymatically processed, and then drives inflammation as a damage-associated molecular pattern. The IL-33 receptor ST2, encoded by IL1RL1, is expressed as both a membrane-anchored receptor (ST2L) activated by IL-33, and as a soluble variant (sST2) that exhibits anti-inflammatory properties. The IL-33/ST2 axis is involved in the pathogenesis of atopic and autoimmune diseases, cancer, and central nervous system disorders. Here, we review recent findings on the role of the IL-33/ST2 axis in health and disease.
Keywords: Autoimmunity; IL-33; Inflammatory bowel diseases; ST2; Table of contents.
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