RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 Interleukin 6: The biology behind the therapy JF Considerations in Medicine JO Considerations Med FD BMJ Publishing Group Ltd SP 2 OP 6 DO 10.1136/conmed-2018-000005 VO 2 IS 1 A1 Simon A Jones A1 Tsutomu Takeuchi A1 Daniel Aletaha A1 Josef Smolen A1 Ernest H Choy A1 Iain McInnes YR 2018 UL http://considerations.bmj.com/content/2/1/2.abstract AB The cytokine interleukin (IL)−6 performs a diverse portfolio of functions in normal physiology and disease. These functions extend beyond the typical role for an inflammatory cytokine, and IL-6 often displays hormone-like properties that affect metabolic processes associated with lipid metabolism, insulin resistance, and the neuroendocrine system. Consequently, the biology of IL-6 is complex. Recent advances in the field have led to novel interpretations of how IL-6 delivers immune homeostasis in health and yet drives disease pathology during infection, autoimmunity, and cancer. Various biological drugs that target IL-6 are in clinical practice or emerging in clinical trials and pre-clinical development programmes. The challenge is knowing how and when to apply these therapies. In this review, we will explore the biology behind IL-6 directed therapies and identify some key hurdles for future investigation.