Interleukin (IL)-2, IL-4, IL-7, IL-9, IL-15, and IL-21 belong to a family of cytokines based on their sharing the common cytokine receptor γ chain (γc) that mediate diverse immunological functions. These cytokines have a critical role in the generation, maturation, differentiation, survival, and proliferation of various immune cells including T, B, and NK cells. Many of these cytokines have shown promising therapeutic potential. In recent years, several advances have been made in modulating cytokine responses by developing “designer molecules” that alter receptor binding and signaling or half-life. Many of the gamma-chain family of cytokines have found a wide range of applications in cancer as monotherapy or in combination with other treatment strategies (such as immunotherapy, check-point blockade, adoptive cell transfer), auto-immunity, infectious diseases including chronic viral infections or as vaccine enhancers. Proof-of-concept has been demonstrated in several animal models including non-human primate (NHP) models. Over a hundred clinical trials are underway with these or modified versions of these cytokines. In view of this, it is imperative to have a comprehensive understanding of the effects of these cytokines on direct targets and their impact on the overall immunological outcome. It is also essential to systemically evaluate various dosing strategies and pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics of these treatments. We are putting together a special topic that is devoted to basic and translational research, evaluation of safety and efficacy, dosing strategies in different animal models, and the findings of clinical trials on the gamma-chain family of cytokines. Examples of topics that fit the focus of this issue include: • Novel roles or functions of the IL-2, IL-4, IL-7, IL-15 and IL-21 and related molecules• Immunotherapeutic use of these cytokines (monotherapy or in combination with other treatments) in various animal models for different pathological conditions • OMICS studies revealing global insights into the cytokine therapy• Findings of clinical trials using the cytokines• Expert opinions and perspectives on the status and future directions for immunotherapy of these cytokines in the form of review articles and commentaries
Interleukin (IL)-2, IL-4, IL-7, IL-9, IL-15, and IL-21 belong to a family of cytokines based on their sharing the common cytokine receptor γ chain (γc) that mediate diverse immunological functions. These cytokines have a critical role in the generation, maturation, differentiation, survival, and proliferation of various immune cells including T, B, and NK cells. Many of these cytokines have shown promising therapeutic potential. In recent years, several advances have been made in modulating cytokine responses by developing “designer molecules” that alter receptor binding and signaling or half-life. Many of the gamma-chain family of cytokines have found a wide range of applications in cancer as monotherapy or in combination with other treatment strategies (such as immunotherapy, check-point blockade, adoptive cell transfer), auto-immunity, infectious diseases including chronic viral infections or as vaccine enhancers. Proof-of-concept has been demonstrated in several animal models including non-human primate (NHP) models. Over a hundred clinical trials are underway with these or modified versions of these cytokines. In view of this, it is imperative to have a comprehensive understanding of the effects of these cytokines on direct targets and their impact on the overall immunological outcome. It is also essential to systemically evaluate various dosing strategies and pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics of these treatments. We are putting together a special topic that is devoted to basic and translational research, evaluation of safety and efficacy, dosing strategies in different animal models, and the findings of clinical trials on the gamma-chain family of cytokines. Examples of topics that fit the focus of this issue include: • Novel roles or functions of the IL-2, IL-4, IL-7, IL-15 and IL-21 and related molecules• Immunotherapeutic use of these cytokines (monotherapy or in combination with other treatments) in various animal models for different pathological conditions • OMICS studies revealing global insights into the cytokine therapy• Findings of clinical trials using the cytokines• Expert opinions and perspectives on the status and future directions for immunotherapy of these cytokines in the form of review articles and commentaries
