%0 journal article
%@ 1359-6101
%A Sabat, R., Gruetz, G., Warszawska, K., Kirsch, S., Witte, E., Wolk, K., Geginat, J.

%D 2010
%J Cytokine & Growth Factor Reviews
%N 5
%P 331-344 
%R doi:10.1016/j.cytogfr.2010.09.002
%T Biology of interleukin-10
%U https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cytogfr.2010.09.002
5 
%X Interleukin (IL)-10 is the most important cytokine with anti-inflammatory properties besides TGF-β and IL-35. It is produced by activated immune cells, in particular monocytes/macrophages and T cell subsets including Tr1, Treg, and Th1 cells. IL-10 acts through a transmembrane receptor complex, which is composed of IL-10R1 and IL-10R2, and regulates the functions of many different immune cells. In monocytes/macrophages, IL-10 diminishes the production of inflammatory mediators and inhibits antigen presentation, although it enhances their uptake of antigens. Additionally, IL-10 plays an important role in the biology of B cells and T cells. The special physiological relevance of this cytokine lies in the prevention and limitation of over-whelming specific and unspecific immune reactions and, in consequence, of tissue damage. At the same time, IL-10 strengthens the “scavenger”-function and contributes to induced tolerance. This review provides an overview about the cellular sources, molecular mechanisms, effects, and biological role of IL-10.