Investigating the Extra- and Intracellular Signaling Mechanisms of Interleukin 37

This thesis examined the extra- and intracellular signaling mechanisms of interleukin 37, a potent anti-inflammatory protein which is a broad-spectrum inhibitor of inflammation and immunity. We demonstrated that IL-37 exerts a complex anti-inflammatory signaling program and identified cellular targets of IL-37 in health and disease contexts. These findings extend our understanding of the repertoire of IL-37 functions and how IL-37 contributes to the regulation of inflammation. Translationally, IL-37 is a strategic target for drug development and this work supports the development of IL-37-based therapeutics that have the potential to treat a wide range of chronic inflammatory diseases.