Th22 and related cytokines in inflammatory and autoimmune diseases

Introduction: Th22 and related cytokines regulate various processes and have been linked to diverse effects. The levels of Th22 and cytokine IL-22 are increased in several disorders and positively related to some autoimmune diseases. Preclinical studies have suggested that the inhibition or stimulation of IL-22 is an attractive approach to reverse the immune disorders. Simultaneously, considering many patients with refractory autoimmune diseases respond poorly to the therapies which are highly toxic, more effective therapies are to be examined. Areas covered: The role of Th22 cells and related cytokines and therapeutic strategies targeting them in many illnesses, especially inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Expert opinion: Th22 cells and related cytokine IL-22 regulate multiple biological functions and play an important role in a number of inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. They have unique and attractive advantages for targeting. Targeting IL-22 has already been trialed in many mice experiments, showing better efficacy and fewer side effects compared with classical drugs. Targeting IL-22 or Th22 might provide pathogenetic treatment. However, Th22 subset is a recently identified Th subset and its associated research is extremely limited. Therefore, there are still many unanswered questions and further researches are warranted.