Interleukin 4 as a therapeutic target in allergic disorders

Abstract

Interleukin-4 (IL-4) is a cytokine which is considered to play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of allergic disorders, and hence has been identified as a possible therapeutic target. Several agents have been shown to interfere with the expression, biosynthesis, secretion, or signal transduction of IL-4. Two novel approaches involve neutralization of circulating IL-4 by monoclonal antibodies, or by soluble IL-4 receptors; and blockade of the IL-4 receptor by mutant forms of IL-4. Both approaches show promise in vivo.