Recombinant human IL-11 protein - Bioactive cytokine

Interleukin 11 background

Interleukin‑11 (IL‑11) belongs to the IL‑6 cytokine family, which includes Oncostatin M (OSM), IL‑6, ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF), leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF), cardiotrophin‑1 (CT‑1), IL‑31, and IL‑27. These cytokines primarily function by binding to specific alpha receptors - sometimes shared among family members - which then associate with the common gp130 co-receptor to trigger intracellular signaling, mainly through the canonical JAK/STAT pathway [1].

While IL‑11 was traditionally regarded as anti-fibrotic, anti-inflammatory, and pro-regenerative, recent studies have challenged this view. Newer studies highlight IL‑11 as a driver of fibrosis, inflammation, and impaired tissue regeneration [1,2].

The profibrotic role of IL‑11 was first identified in 2017 by Schafer and colleagues, who demonstrated that IL-11 mediates the pro-fibrotic effect of TGF-β1, the prototypic profibrotic cytokine [3-4]. Now, IL‑11 is recognized as a key downstream mediator of TGF‑β signaling, promoting fibrosis through ERK pathway activation in stromal cells. This profibrotic activity is implicated in a range of disorders, including pulmonary, cardiac, and hepatic fibrosis [3]. These discoveries have made IL‑11 a promising therapeutic target for fibrotic diseases, with the potential to halt or even reverse tissue fibrosis. Therapeutic approaches under investigation include monoclonal antibodies directed against IL‑11 itself or its receptor [3].

Moreover, IL‑11 has also emerged as a key player in cancer biology, particularly in shaping the tumor microenvironment. Targeting IL‑11 or its receptor may not only limit fibrotic remodeling but also improve anti-tumor immune responses, particularly in combination with immune checkpoint inhibitors like anti‑PD‑1 antibody [1,5]. These advances highlight IL‑11 as a compelling candidate for therapeutic intervention in both fibrotic and oncologic settings.

References:

1. Cook SA., 2023. Understanding interleukin 11 as a disease gene and therapeutic target. Biochem J.480(23):1987-2008.
2. Fung KY, et al., 2022. Emerging roles for IL-11 in inflammatory diseases. Cytokine. 149:155750.
3. O'Reilly S., 2023. Interleukin-11 and its eminent role in tissue fibrosis: a possible therapeutic target. Clin Exp Immunol. 214(2):154-161.
4. Schafer S, et al., 2017. IL-11 is a crucial determinant of cardiovascular fibrosis. Nature. 552(7683):110-115.
5. Zhang C, et al. 2025. IL-11/IL-11R signal inhibition by 9MW3811 remodels the immune tumor microenvironment and enhances anti-tumor efficacy of PD-1 blockade. NPJ Precis Oncol. 9(1):138.