IL10 Gene: Interleukin 10 – Function, Pathways, and Disease Associations

The IL10 gene encodes interleukin-10 (IL-10), a potent anti-inflammatory cytokine that plays a critical role in immune regulation. It is produced by various immune cells, including T helper 2 (Th2) cells, regulatory T cells, macrophages, and dendritic cells. IL-10 inhibits the synthesis of pro-inflammatory cytokines (e.g., TNF-α, IL-1, IL-6) and suppresses antigen presentation and T cell activation. It is involved in the control of immune responses, inflammation, and autoimmunity. Dysregulation of IL10 expression is associated with several diseases, including autoimmune disorders, infectious diseases, and cancer.

Tissue Expression

Cell Line Expression

Hotspot Mutations

Mutation functional classification

• IL-10 signaling pathway

• Cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction

• JAK-STAT signaling pathway

• Toll-like receptor signaling pathway (regulation)

Interleukin-10 (IL-10) is a homodimeric cytokine of 178 amino acids (mature form) with a molecular weight of ~18.6 kDa per monomer. It is composed of two interpenetrating alpha-helical domains. IL-10 binds to a heterotetrameric receptor complex consisting of IL-10RA and IL-10RB, activating JAK1/TYK2 and STAT3 signaling. This leads to anti-inflammatory responses, including inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokine production and downregulation of MHC class II on antigen-presenting cells. IL-10 is crucial for maintaining immune homeostasis and preventing excessive tissue damage during infection and inflammation.