Interleukin 28 is a potential therapeutic target for sepsis.

Identification of new therapeutic targets for the treatment of sepsis is imperative. We report here that cytokine IL-28 (IFN-λ) levels were elevated in clinical and experimental sepsis. Neutralization of IL-28 protected mice from lethal sepsis induced by cecal ligation and puncture (CLP), which was associated with improved bacterial clearance and enhanced neutrophil infiltration. Conversely, administration of recombinant IL-28 aggravated mortality, facilitated bacterial dissimilation and limited neutrophil recruitment, in the model of sepsis induced by CLP. This study defines IL-28 as a detrimental mediator during sepsis and identifies a potential therapeutic target for the immune therapy in sepsis.