IL-17: Balancing Protective Immunity and Pathogenesis

Figure 2

Role of IL-17 in protective immunity versus immunopathology. Protective immunity: IL-17 activates the production of chemokines for neutrophil recruitment and triggers neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) for pathogen clearance. IL-17 promotes the production of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) with antibacterial properties through skin or mucosal surfaces. IL-17 also enhances epithelial barrier function to prevent dissemination of pathogens to amplify immune response. Immunopathology: IL-17 mediates tissue inflammation and damage that leads to different inflammatory and autoimmune diseases.