IL-32 is part of the cytokine family and contains a tyrosine sulfation site,3 potential N-myristoylation sites,multiple putative phosphorylation sites,and an RGD cell-attachment sequence. IL-32 expression is elevated after the activation of T-cells by mitogens or the activation of NK cells by IL-2. IL-32 induces the production of TNF-a from macrophage cells. IL-32 pro-inflammatory pathway is activated in response to influenza A virus infection. Dysregulation of IL-32 in myelodysplastic syndrome and chronic myelomonocytic leukemia modulates apoptosis and impairs NK function.
Induction of TNF,IL-1beta,and IL-6 by IL-32 is intervened by p38-MAPK. IL-32 induced monocyte-to-macrophage differentiation is mediated through nonapoptotic,caspase-3-dependent mechanisms. IL32 plays an important role in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis. IL-32 is involved in activation-induced cell death in T cells,through its intracellular actions. IL-32 is a cell-associated proinflammatory cytokine,which is particularly stimulated by mycobacteria through a caspase-1- and IL-18-dependent production of interferon gamma.
IL-32 is associated with TNF-a,IL-1beta,and IL-18. IL32 is involved in human rheumatoid arthritis and is a novel target in autoimmune diseases.