Itaconate and its derivative 4-octyl itaconate inhibit the Januse kinase 1 immune protein, which has implications for potential severe asthma treatment, and could be a new approach in addressing the disease. According to a study published in Cell Metabolism, by researchers led by Dr Luke A.J. O’Neill, chair of biochemistry at the Trinity College Dublin School of Biochemistry and Immunology, the metabolite itaconate and derivatives based on it have a range of anti-inflammatory effects. Cytokines IL-4 and IL-13, according to the researchers, are implicated in the pathogenesis of asthma and they signal through the Janus kinase 1 (JAK1) immune protein and the signal transducer and activator of transcription 6 (STAT6) pathway.