IL-13 in allergy: home at last

The immune response to allergic challenge is thought to include important e ffects mediated by cytokines. Of considerable interest to immunologists and parasitologists is the distinction between two closely related cytokines, IL-4 and IL-13. Although overlapping functions are inevitable, studies over the past year reveal a distinct role for IL-13 in mediating the physiologi c response to a diverse array of allergens and parasites.