Anti-IL23α Neutralizing Antibody

IL23 (interleukin 23) is a cytokine of the IL12 cytokine family. It is a heterodimeric cytokine with an IL-12p40 subunit and a p19 one. It is produced by macrophages and dendritic cells, and acts as a pro-inflammatory cytokine. It acts on memory T cells, leading to IFNγ (interferon gamma) and IL17 production, and Th17 (T helper type 17) cell proliferation. IL23 is involved in auto-immune and inflammatory disorders, such as psoriasis and arthritis. The use of IL23 targeting antibodies has been ongoing. Ustekinumab, commercialized under the name Stelara™, is one example of the benefits of disrupting the interaction between IL23 and its receptor can be beneficial in the treatment of autoimmune disorders.