Leukemia inhibitory factor: Recent advances and implications in biotechnology

Cytokine Growth Factor Rev. 2020 Apr:52:25-33. doi: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2019.11.005. Epub 2019 Nov 27.

Abstract

Leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) is a pleiotropic cytokine with several functions in health and disease ranging from inflammation to cancer. LIF is also a potential target and/or therapeutic agent for diseases such as multiple sclerosis, stroke and even psychological disorders, where the function of LIF as a neurotrophic factor has only recently been explored. In recent years, a limited number of LIF clinical trials have been completed, which partially explains the shortage of effective applications as a therapeutic agent. With the increasing interest from biotechnology companies producing recombinant LIF, this status quo will certainly change, and the potential impact of LIF in terms of disease diagnosis, treatment and management will be realized.

Keywords: Astrocytes; Brain injury; Cytokine; LIF; Multiple sclerosis; Myelination; Stroke.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Systematic Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Biotechnology / methods*
  • Clinical Trials as Topic
  • Humans
  • Leukemia Inhibitory Factor / genetics*
  • Leukemia Inhibitory Factor / immunology
  • Leukemia Inhibitory Factor / therapeutic use*
  • Mice
  • Multiple Sclerosis / immunology
  • Multiple Sclerosis / therapy
  • Nanotechnology / methods
  • Stroke / immunology
  • Stroke / therapy

Substances

  • Leukemia Inhibitory Factor