IL-32 and its paradoxical role in neoplasia

Interleukin-32 (IL-32) is an interleukin cytokine usually linked to inflammation. In recent years, it has been found that IL-32 exhibits both pro- and anti-tumor effects. Although most of those effects from IL-32 appear to favor tumor growth, some isoforms have shown to favor tumor suppression. This suggests that the role of IL-32 in neoplasia is very complex. Thus, the role of IL-32 in these various cancers and protein pathways makes it a very crucial component to consider when looking at potential therapeutic options in tumor treatment. In this review, we will explore what is currently known about IL-32, including its relationship with tumorigenesis and the potential for IL-32 to enhance local and systemic anti-tumor immune responses. Such a study might be helpful to accelerate the development of IL-32-based immunotherapies.