This gene encodes a pro-inflammatory cytokine that is a member of the interleukin-17 family. The encoded protein plays a central role in host defense against diverse pathogens. The encoded protein is produced by activated T-cells and certain cell types of innate immune system. The active protein functions as either a homodimer with other interleukin-17 family members and signals through the interleukin-17 receptor to induce inflammatory cytokine production. Aberrant expression of this gene is associated with autoinflammatory diseases including rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis and multiple sclerosis. [provided by RefSeq, Sep 2015]