Fig. 1.   Schematic representation of the receptor specificity and mechanism of action of interleukin families thought to be involved in atherogenesis. Most receptors have been found to consist of heterodimeric complexes, frequently incorporating an interleukin-specific chain in addition to a common chain that is shared by the interleukin family members (including IL-2R, c, and gp130). Receptor activation initiates intracellular phosphorylation cascades that are mediated by kinases (including p38 MAPK, c-Jun N-terminal kinase, and JAKs), resulting in the activation and/or nuclear translocation of transcription factors (including AP-1, STATs, NF-B). Binding of these factors to DNA consensus sequences, in conjunction with the required cofactors, effects the expression of specific patterns of pro- and/or anti-inflammatory mediators.