A New TH17 Cytokine in Hidradenitis Suppurativa: Antimicrobial and Pro-Inflammatory Role of IL-26

The study explored the role of Interleukin (IL)-26, a cytokine mainly expressed in Th17 cells, in Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS). IL-26 was found to have both antimicrobial and pro-inflammatory properties, contributing to the immune response in the skin by producing direct bactericidal action and affecting membrane pore formation. The research highlighted IL-26's involvement in the chronic inflammation characteristic of HS, which is marked by painful nodules, abscesses, and scarring due to the occlusion and rupture of hair follicles. The study suggested that IL-26 could be a significant factor in the tissue injury seen in immune-mediated skin diseases like HS.