The Enigmatic Cytokine Oncostatin M and Roles in Disease

Figure 4

Postulated roles of OSM in allergen induced airway inflammation. Repeated exposure of allergens (Ragweed or House Dust Mite (HDM)) in airways leads to activation of the adaptive immune response resulting in secretion of Th2-associated immunoglobulins (IgE and IgG1) and cytokines (IL-4/IL-13). Local production of OSM by activated inflammatory cells regulates various responses synergistically in combination with IL-4, IL-13, (through regulation of the IL-4R) or IL-17A to influence cell infiltration and tissue remodeling. OSM reduces concentrations of IL-4, IL-13, and IL-17A required to elicit robust local inflammatory and lung remodeling responses.