Abstract
Interleukin-2 (IL-2) has multiple, sometimes opposing, functions during an inflammatory response. It is a potent inducer of T-cell proliferation and T-helper 1 (Th1) and Th2 effector T-cell differentiation and provides T cells with a long-lasting competitive advantage resulting in the optimal survival and function of memory cells. In a regulatory role, IL-2 is important for the development, survival, and function of regulatory T cells, it enhances Fas-mediated activation-induced cell death, and it inhibits the development of inflammatory Th17 cells. Thus, in its dual and contrasting functions, IL-2 contributes to both the induction and the termination of inflammatory immune responses.
MeSH terms
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Animals
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CD4-Positive T-Lymphocytes / immunology
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CD4-Positive T-Lymphocytes / metabolism
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CD8-Positive T-Lymphocytes / immunology
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CD8-Positive T-Lymphocytes / metabolism
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Cytokines / immunology
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Cytokines / metabolism
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Humans
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Inflammation / immunology*
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Inflammation / metabolism
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Inflammation Mediators / immunology
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Inflammation Mediators / metabolism
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Interleukin-2 / deficiency
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Interleukin-2 / immunology*
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Receptors, Interleukin-2 / deficiency
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Receptors, Interleukin-2 / immunology*
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Signal Transduction / immunology
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T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory / immunology
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T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory / metabolism
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Th1 Cells / immunology
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Th1 Cells / metabolism
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Th2 Cells / immunology
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Th2 Cells / metabolism
Substances
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Cytokines
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Inflammation Mediators
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Interleukin-2
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Receptors, Interleukin-2