Function, molecular structure and gene expression regulation of LD78]

LD78 is a member of a new cytokine superfamily, consisting of at least twelve small proteins, which are involved in inflammation and cell growth. Depending on their primary structure, these cytokines can be divided into two families, one of which contains LD78 and is known as the CC family. The protein and gene structures and the physiological functions of LD78 in comparison with the other CC family members are summarized here. Furthermore, the generation mechanism of the three LD78 genes and their expression are discussed.