The protein encoded by this gene is a proinflammatory cytokine produced by activated T cells. This cytokine regulates the activities of NF-kappaB and mitogen-activated protein kinases. This cytokine can stimulate the expression of IL6 and cyclooxygenase-2 (PTGS2/COX-2), as well as enhance the production of nitric oxide (NO). High levels of this cytokine are associated with several chronic inflammatory diseases including rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis and multiple sclerosis. [provided by RefSeq, Jul 2008]
Ligand for IL17RA and IL17RC (PubMed:17911633). The heterodimer formed by IL17A and IL17F is a ligand for the heterodimeric complex formed by IL17RA and IL17RC (PubMed:18684971). Involved in inducing stromal cells to produce proinflammatory and hematopoietic cytokines (PubMed:8676080).