Join Robert Laugherty, PA-C, JD, a rheumatology specialist with over 16 years of experience, as he explores IL-17, a key cytokine involved in immune defense and chronic inflammatory diseases. IL-17 plays a critical role in host protection against extracellular bacteria and fungi, while its dysregulation contributes to autoimmune conditions such as psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and rheumatoid arthritis.

IL-17 is a family of six proteins (IL-17A to IL-17F) that function downstream of IL-23, activating epithelial cells, fibroblasts, and keratinocytes to release inflammatory cytokines and recruit neutrophils. This cascade amplifies immune responses through key signaling pathways, including NF-κB, MAPK, and C/EBP transcription factors. The persistent activation of IL-17-driven inflammation is a hallmark of several rheumatic diseases, making it a significant target for biologic therapies.

For rheumatology APPs, clinicians, and researchers, understanding the IL-17 pathway is essential for optimizing treatment strategies and advancing targeted therapies in autoimmune disease management.

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