IL-32 and its paradoxical role in neoplasia

• Published in: Critical reviews in oncology/hematology 2023-06, Vol.186, p.104011-104011, Article 104011
• Main Authors: Hough, Jacob T., Zhao, Lei, Lequio, Marco, Heslin, Aidan J., Xiao, Huaping, Lewis, Cade C., Zhang, Justin, Bai, Qian, Wakefield, Mark R., Fang, Yujiang
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Cancer; Carcinogenesis; Cytokine; Cytokines - metabolism; Humans; IL-32; Immunotherapy; Inflammation; Interleukins - therapeutic use; Neoplasms - drug therapy
• ISSN: 1040-8428; 1879-0461
• DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2023.104011

Interleukin-32 (IL-32) is an interleukin cytokine usually linked to inflammation. In recent years, it has been found that IL-32 exhibits both pro- and anti-tumor effects. Although most of those effects from IL-32 appear to favor tumor growth, some isoforms have shown to favor tumor suppression. This suggests that the role of IL-32 in neoplasia is very complex. Thus, the role of IL-32 in these various cancers and protein pathways makes it a very crucial component to consider when looking at potential therapeutic options in tumor treatment. In this review, we will explore what is currently known about IL-32, including its relationship with tumorigenesis and the potential for IL-32 to enhance local and systemic anti-tumor immune responses. Such a study might be helpful to accelerate the development of IL-32-based immunotherapies. [Display omitted] •IL-32 is an important interleukin associated with inflammation.•IL-32 exhibits both pro- and anti-tumor effects.•The specific role of IL-32 in neoplasia is very complex and depends on the tissue type and tumor microenvironment.