IL-17, IL-21, and IL-22 cytokines of T helper 17 cells in cancer

Abstract

CD4(+) T helper (Th) cells are important regulators of cellular immune response. Newly discovered interleukin (IL)-17-producing CD4(+) T cells are known as T helper 17 cells (Th17). They are distinct subset from the T helper type 1 (Th1) and 2 (Th2) lineages. The differentiation of Th17 cells has been intensively studied; however, the role of Th17 cells in different diseases including cancer is still under investigation. Besides IL-17 family cytokines, Th17 cells produce IL-22, IL-21, and IL-26. The dysregulated function of Th17 cells and their cytokines could contribute to pathology of diseases, including cancer. The role of cytokines of Th17 cells such as IL-17, IL-21, and IL-22 in cancer will be discussed in this review.