IL‐17: overview and role in oral immunity and microbiome

Interleukin‐17 ( IL ‐17) is a multifaceted cytokine with diverse roles in both immune protection and also immunopathology. IL ‐17 has a well‐recognized role in immune surveillance at mucosal and barrier surfaces, but also has been increasingly implicated as a driver of immunopathology in settings of autoimmunity and chronic inflammation. The current review introduces basic aspects of IL ‐17 biology and examines the protective and pathogenic roles of IL ‐17 with a focus on oral mucosal immunity and inflammation. Specific emphasis is given to the role of the IL ‐17 response as a catalyst in ‘shaping the microbiome at the oral barrier’.