Automated description from the Alliance of Genome Resources (Release 7.0.0)
Enables cytokine activity. Involved in several processes, including cholesterol homeostasis; establishment of skin barrier; and positive regulation of cell differentiation. Acts upstream of or within several processes, including natural killer cell mediated cytotoxicity; negative regulation of myoblast differentiation; and positive regulation of type II interferon production. Is active in extracellular space. Is expressed in extraembryonic component; gut; lymphatic system; reproductive system; and trunk. Human ortholog(s) of this gene implicated in several diseases, including Kawasaki disease; allergic rhinitis; autoimmune disease (multiple); biliary atresia; and hepatitis B. Orthologous to human IL18 (interleukin 18).