IL-35-Mediated Immunotherapy

Researchers from the Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology (IASST) in Guwahati have identified a promising protein, IL-35, that could lead to new treatments for type 1 diabetes and autoimmune diabetes mellitus.

About IL-35

IL-35 is a unique protein composed of two specific chains, IL-12α and IL-27β, with promising potential in immunotherapy for type 1 and autoimmune diabetes.

• IL-35 has been found to play a protective role in the immune system by reducing specific immune cells that produce inflammatory chemicals. 
  • This reduction helps lower pancreatic cell infiltration, a major contributor to the development of autoimmune diabetes.

Enroll now for UPSC Online Course

About Autoimmune Diabetes

• Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is an organ-specific autoimmune disease where the immune system mistakenly targets and attacks the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas.Causes: It is a complex disease involving both genetic predisposition and environmental triggers that contribute to the autoimmune response against beta cells.
• Impact: In genetically susceptible individuals, the inflammatory attack on beta cells leads to a chronic deficiency of insulin. This process results in a lifelong dependence on external (exogenous) insulin for managing blood glucose levels.

Role of  IL-35 in the Immune System

• Immune Regulation: IL-35 regulates various immune components, including macrophages, T-cells, and regulatory B-cells, all of which are crucial in managing immune responses.
• IL-35 impacts the immune system by
  • Inhibiting Macrophage Activation and T-cell Proteins: IL-35 prevents immune cells from attacking pancreatic beta cells, essential for insulin production.
  • Regulating Regulatory B Cells: These cells play a vital role in moderating immune responses, helping prevent autoimmune attacks on pancreatic cells. Lowering Inflammatory Cell Production: By reducing specific immune cells that produce inflammatory chemicals, IL-35 minimizes pancreatic cell infiltration, a critical factor in both type 1 and autoimmune diabetes.

Check Out UPSC Modules From PW Store

Significance of the IL-35 identification

• The global diabetes epidemic, particularly concerning children and adolescents in developing countries, demands effective new therapies.
  • Traditional treatments focus on symptom management, but IL-35-mediated immunotherapy offers a new approach by addressing the immune response directly, potentially leading to more lasting control over the disease.