The subunits of IL-12, originating from two distinct cells, can functionally synergize to protect against pathogen dissemination <i>in vivo</i>

Abstract Cytokines are typically single gene products that potently modify immune responses. The IL-12 family is an exception to this paradigm as these cytokines heterodimers. In the case of IL-12, subunits, IL-12p40 and IL-12p35 encoded by two unlinked genes. However, it canonical activated myeloid cells co-express both subunits simultaneously secrete a fully active heterodimer which then drives IFNγ production innate adaptive cells. Using chimeric mouse model, we identified novel method formation for generating functional activity in vivo involving monomers originating from hematopoietic extracellularly associate with other non-hematopoietic context parasitic challenge, found two-cell mechanism was sufficient drive T cell differentiation local sites, distal initial infection, thereby regulate systemic dissemination pathogen. Accordingly, identify new collaboration between produce through regulated release individual alert system prepare host tissues potential pathogen arrival.