Lyophilized protein should be stored at < -20°C, though stable at room temperature for 3 weeks. Reconstituted protein solution can be stored at 4-7°C for 2-7 days. Aliquots of reconstituted samples are stable at < -20°C for 3 months.
Interleukin-17 is a potent pro-inflammatory cytokine produced by activated memory T cells. There are at least six members of the IL-17 family in humans and in mice. As IL-17 shares properties with IL-1 and TNF-alpha, it may induce joint inflammation and bone and cartilage destruction. This cytokine is found in synovial fluids of patients with rheumatoid arthritis, and produced by rheumatoid arthritis synovium. It increases IL-6 production, induces collagen degradation and decreases collagen synthesis by synovium and cartilage and proteoglycan synthesis in cartilage. IL-17 is also able to increase bone destruction and reduce its formation. Blocking of interleukin-17 with specific inhibitors provides a protective inhibition of cartilage and bone degradation.