Interleukin-1 and inflammation in cardiovascular disease

Abstract

Interleukin 1 (IL-1) is a pro-inflammatory cytokine with important roles in innate immunity and tissue homeostasis. Inflammation is crucial as it protects the host by reacting against pathogens and repairing tissues however, improper use of the inflammatory cascade results in pathogenesis of several acute and chronic diseases. IL-1 together with the NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome are key players in inflammation and modulate cardiac function as well. Literature concerning the role of IL-1 and the inflammasome is reviewed, together with a concise narrative overview pathways affected during signaling. Specific examples of the role of IL-1 in pathogenic outcomes in cardiovascular disease (CVD) are also reviewed.