Interleukin-11: A pivotal player and potential therapeutic target in prostate cancer

Interleukin-11 (IL-11), a pleiotropic cytokine belonging to the interleukin-6 (IL-6) family, is implicated in the initiation and progression of various malignancies. Recent studies revealed that IL-11 plays multifaceted roles in prostate cancer, contributing to tumor cell proliferation, castration resistance, bone metastasis, and chemotherapeutic resistance. Interleukin-11 has emerged as a promising target for both diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. This review outlines the molecular structure and biological functions of IL-11; summarizes its role in early diagnosis, prognostic evaluation, tumor progression, and therapeutic intervention for prostate cancer; and explores its potential as a novel therapeutic target.