Interleukin-13

Functions

Interleukin-13 has a critical role in goblet cell metaplasia. Goblet cells are filled with mucin (MUC). MUC5AC Mucin 5AC is a gel-like mucin product of goblet cells. Interleukin-13 induces goblet cell differentiation and allows for the production of MUC5AC in tracheal epithelium. 15-Lipoxygenase-1 (15LO1) which is an enzyme in the fatty acid metabolism and its metabolite, 15-HETE, are highly expressed in asthma (which lead to the overexpression of MUC5AC) and are induced by IL-13 in human airway epithelial cells. With the increasing number of goblet cells, there is the production of excessive mucus within the bronchi. The functional consequences of the changes in MUC storation and secretion contributes to the pathophysiologic mechanisms for various clinical abnormalities in asthmatic patients including sputum production, airway narrowing, exacerbation and accelerated loss in lung function.