Autophagy Controls the Production and Secretion of IL-1β: Underlying Mechanisms

Although essential for the eradication of pathogens and tissue repair, inflammatory responses can be detrimental for the host when uncontrolled. Thus, the production of inflammatory mediators, including the proinflammatory cytokine IL-1β, must be tightly regulated to prevent excessive inflammation and collateral damage. Autophagy can regulate the production and secretion of the IL-1 cytokine family members IL-1α, IL-1β and IL-18, suggesting a pivotal role for autophagy in the regulation of inflammatory responses. This chapter focuses on the molecular mechanisms by which autophagy controls IL-1β secretion and addresses the relevance of this regulation in vitro and in vivo.