The IL-1 family cytokines and receptors in autoimmune diseases

The role of the cytokines and receptors of the IL-1 family in inflammation is well known. Several cytokines of the family have a powerful inflammatory activity, with IL-1 beta being the best-characterized factor. The inflammatory activity of IL-1 cytokines is regulated by other factors of the family, including receptor antagonists, soluble receptors and anti-inflammatory cytokines.