Description
Inerleukin-12 (IL-12), as a potent factor, plays an important role in the networks of immune system. It is a multifunctional cytokine, the properties of which bridge innate and adaptive immunity, acting as a key regulator of cell-mediated immune responses through the induction of T helper 1differentiation. By promoting IFN-γ production, proliferation, and cytolytic activity of natural killer and T cells, IL-12 induces cellular immunity. IL-12 not only can facilitate the maturation of antigen presenting cells (APC), especially for dendritic cells (DC), but also can be the third signal to change properties of CD8 T cells and increase generation of effector and memory cells. Treatment with IL-12 can inhibit bacterial, virus and intracellular parasites, produce an effect of anti-tumor, and enhance autoimmunity