Cytokines are pivotal mediators in the immune system, consisting of small, secreted proteins produced by nearly all cells to regulate and influence immune responses. Among these, Interleukin-32 (IL-32) stands out as a unique multifunctional cytokine, initially discovered in natural killer cell transcript 4. IL-32 has been implicated in a variety of disorders due to its influence on numerous cellular and physiological functions. Since its discovery, research has increasingly focused on understanding IL-32's role in health and disease. However, the specific roles of IL-32 remain inconsistent, particularly before the identification of its isoforms.
For instance, IL-32 has shown varying roles in cancer, either promoting tumor proliferation or inhibiting cancer development, depending on the cancer type and microenvironment. Additionally, IL-32 has been associated with several autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, atopic dermatitis, inflammatory bowel diseases, and type 1 diabetes. Its involvement in the pathogenesis of cancerous, inflammatory, allergic, and infectious diseases underscores its regulatory role in various conditions. Recent studies have also linked IL-32 to neurological disorders like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases, potentially due to its role in response to hypoxia. Despite advancements in understanding IL-32's pro- and anti-inflammatory mechanisms, many questions remain, particularly regarding its binding partners and the regulation of its isoforms across different conditions.
This Research Topic aims to elucidate the biological and pathological roles of IL-32 in health and disease. The primary objectives include characterizing IL-32, using it as a model for various diseases, and exploring novel developmental or evolutionary connections. By addressing these aims, the research seeks to bridge gaps in current knowledge and foster interdisciplinary exchanges. Specific questions to be explored include the molecular mechanisms of IL-32, its structural and functional aspects, and its binding partners. Additionally, the research will investigate the regulation of IL-32 in various diseases and its impact on gene expression.
To gather further insights into the complex roles of IL-32, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
- Molecular mechanisms, structural and functional aspects, and binding partners of IL-32
- Role and regulation of IL-32 in the mentioned diseases
- Regulation of IL-32 on gene expression
- Epigenetics and chromatin remodeling in the presence or absence of IL-32
Topic Editor Jessica Dos Santos is part of the 2000HIV collaboration, which is supported by ViiV Healthcare. The other Topic Editors declare no competing interests with regard to the Research Topic subject
Keywords: Interleukin-32, IL-32, mechanisms, regulation, epigenetics, hypoxia, cancer, autoimmune disease, allergy and asthma, neurodegenerative diseases.
Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.
