Interleukins associated with proliferation of myeloma cells:
(1) interleukin-6 (IL-6)
(2) interleukin-16 (IL-16)
Interleukins associated with reduced proliferation of myeloma cells:
(1) interleukin-27
(2) interleukin-2
Interleukins elevated in the serum of patients with multiple myeloma (unclear role):
(1) interleukin-17A
Interleukins affecting bone formation:
(1) interleukin-1beta (osteoclast activation factors)
(2) tumor necrosis factor-beta (osteoclast activation factors)
(3) interleukin-3 (inhibitor osteoblastic activity)
IL-6 is produced by monocytes and fibroblasts. IL-6 levels reflect disease activity and can help to differentiate MGUS, SMM and MM.
IL-2 is produced by macrophages and activated T-cells. IL-2 activated T cells are cytotoxic for myeloma cells, while IL-2 may affect B cell proliferation. The higher the IL-2 level at the time of diagnosis in patients with myeloma, the longer the survival.
