Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor

Abstract

The macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF), produced by many cell types, is a unique cytokine and critical tool of host defenses that have supportive roles in many diseases and conditions, such as septic shock and chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. The role MIF in autoimmunity is highlighted by data showing that common functional polymorphisms in MIF are associated with susceptibility or clinical severity. MIF can regulate glucocorticoid mediated immunosuppression and has an important function in cell survival signalling. A better understanding of MIF as both a cytokine and an intracellular effector may allow us to target specific functions differently in various physiological contexts. This can lead to the development of drugs and therapies targeting MIF, particularly through the identification of more specific disease-related assays.