The impact of IL-12 on the process of development and occurrence of diabetes type 1

Abstract

Interleukin 12 is a glycoprotein composed of two subunits: p35 and p40. The contribution of IL-12 in immune response is complex: the cytokine induces cell-mediated immunity but plays a role also in humoral response. IL-12 takes an important role in pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases, like diabetes type 1. IL-12 through activating differentiation Th0 in Th1, which products high levels of interferon gamma activates cytotoxic properties of NK cells and macrophages. It leads to development of the diabetes type 1. IL-12 activity also promotes atherosclerotic plaque formation leading to macroangiopathy development.