For the specialist...

IL-1 alpha (IL-1a) is a multifunctional signal molecule (cytokine) synthesized by a number of cell types, including cells involved in several aspects of rheumatoid inflammation and joint destruction. It is part of the IL-1 family of cytokines: IL-1a, IL-1 beta (IL-1b) and IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1ra). The first two are highly inflammatory cytokines which affect nearly every cell type in the body, whereas IL-1ra functions as a specific inhibitor. IL-1a, in contrast to IL-1b and IL-1ra, is primarily associated with the cell that produces it, for example monocytes/macrophages and keratinocytes. In the circulation, IL-1a is usually absent, or present only at low concentrations. During infection and inflammation, however, substantial amounts of IL-1a may be found in the blood.

IL-1a, like IL-1b, is highly inflammatory when given to humans, and has been implicated in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases such as RA, insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus and in complications to infections and trauma.

For further information on IL-1, click here.