IL-17C is a mediator of respiratory epithelial innate immune response

Aims: IL-17 is a cytokine that comprises a group of five IL-17 subtypes (IL-17 A to F). IL-17 directly activates epithelial cells leading to the expression of inflammatory mediators and antimicrobial factors. Recent studies showed that IL-17A/F is released by professional immune cells such as CD4+ T cells and macrophages whereas IL-17C is expressed by epithelial cells. It was the purpose of this study to examine the expression of IL-17 in respiratory epithelial cells infected with bacterial pathogens. Methods: Bronchial epithelial cells were exposed to smoke and infected with bacterial pathogens. Mice were expos…