INTERLEUKIN-11

Interleukin-11 (IL-11), a stromal cell-derived cytokine, has been know n to act widely in hematopoietic and non-hematopoietic systems. IL-11 supports the growth of certain types of plasmacytoma and hybridoma cel ls, acts with interleukin-3 (IL-3) in shortening the Go period of earl y progenitors. IL-11 supports megakaryocyte colony formation and matur ation, and acts as an autocrine growth factor in megakaryoblastic cell lines. In addition, IL-11 stimulates erythrocytopoiesis, enhances ant igen-specific antibody responses, induces the synthesis of acute phase proteins, inhibits lipoprotein lipase activity and adipocyte differen tiation, and promotes neuronal development. Administration of rhIL-11 to mice resulted in an increase of neutrophils and platelets. The huma n IL-11 gene is localized at 19q13.3-13.4, and codes 199 amino acids a nd 23 kDa with no N-glycosylation. Its receptor and signal transductio n share partially those of interleukin-6 (IL-6). Further analysis of i ts role in normal and pathological state is necessary to determine the exact function and its application for clinical uses.