IL-33 – positive or negative role in cancer progression?

Interleukin-33 (IL-33) is a IL-1 family member of cytokines which binds the ST2 (suppression of tumorigenicity 2) receptor. This cytokine has a dual function. It may act both as a traditional cytokine and as an intracellular nuclear factor. IL-33 plays a role in many diseases such as: allergy, inflammatory diseases, diabetes and heart diseases. The role of IL-33 in the development of cancer has been intensively studied in recent years and researchers observe both its pro-and anti-cancer effects. IL-33 promotes the development of tumors by affecting expression of cytokines promoting proliferation, angiogenesis, migration, matrix remodeling, the inhibition of apoptosis and recruitment of individual cells of the immune system. Antitumor action of IL-33 is carried out by recruiting and activating CD8+T lymphocytes, natural killer (NK) cells and by promoting second type immune response by the type 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2). Despite numerous studies on the role of IL-33 in the development of cancer, we still do not fully understand the mechanisms by which IL-33 impacts the development and malignancy of various types of cancers. This review summarizes the dual role of IL-33 in the development of the most common cancers in the world to better understand its importance in the carcinogenesis.