IFNy in MAS

IFNγ: a key cytokine in MAS

Excess IFNγ triggers a flood of proinflammatory cytokines1

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IFNY macrophage

Interferon gamma (IFNγ) is a central and upstream mediator of the hyperinflammatory feedback loop in macrophage activation syndrome (MAS).1

Click through or use the slider to see how IFNγ-activated macrophages trigger the downstream release of proinflammatory cytokines—including additional IFNγ—perpetuating hypercytokinemia and hyperinflammation in an aggressive continuum.1

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Medical diagram showing IFNγ pathway with T cells, NK cells, and macrophage activation in inflammatory response
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Medical diagram of IFNγ mechanism showing cellular interactions and macrophage activation process
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Medical diagram depicting IFNγ signaling pathway and its role in immune cell activation and inflammation
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IFNγ pathway diagram showing T cells, NK cells, and macrophage activation in immune response
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Active sJIA and AOSD are associated with elevated IL-18 and other proinflammatory cytokines. IL-18 induces IFNγ production from T cells and NK cells, which may overlap with other factors to initiate an uncontrolled inflammatory state.2-4

High IFNγ levels overactivate macrophages and increase monocyte sensitivity to IFNγ stimulation.5

Activated macrophages release proinflammatory cytokines including IL-1β, IL-6, IL-18, and TNF, which can contribute to the cytokine storm in MAS.6

A continuous dysregulated feedback loop of cytokine production and macrophage activation can result in hyperinflammation and irreversible multiorgan damage.7

AOSD=adult-onset Still’s disease; IFNγR=interferon gamma receptor; IL=interleukin; NK=natural killer; sJIA=systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis; TNF=tumor necrosis factor.

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IFNY macrophage

IFNγ is a key "macrophage-activating factor," triggering the cytokine storm—a surge of downstream hyperinflammation.1

IFNγ and CXCL9 in MAS

Learn about the relationship between IFNγ and chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 9 (CXCL9) in patients with MAS.

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