Cytokines

Cytokines are a broad and loose category of small proteins that are important in cell signaling. They are released by cells and affect the behavior of other cells, and sometimes the releasing cell itself. Cytokines include chemokines, interferons, interleukins, lymphokines, and tumor necrosis factor but generally not hormones or growth factors (despite some overlap in the terminology). Cytokines are produced by a broad range of cells, including immune cells like macrophages, B lymphocytes, T lymphocytes, and mast cells, as well as endothelial cells, fibroblasts, and various stromal cells; a given cytokine may be produced by more than one type of cell.

Function

Cytokines are involved in many aspects of inflammation and immune response, including the recruitment of white blood cells to sites of infection and inflammation, and in immune cell maturation and growth. They are also involved in healing and tissue repair, and in normal cell processes like growth and development.

Classification

Cytokines have been classified into several different systems, but there is no consistent system of classification. Some cytokines are considered pro-inflammatory, and can cause inflammation and tissue damage if they are produced in large amounts or over a long period of time. Others are considered anti-inflammatory, and serve to reduce inflammation and promote healing.

Role in disease

Cytokines play a role in many diseases, particularly those involving inflammation and the immune system. For example, they are involved in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis, asthma, cancer, and autoimmune diseases. They are also involved in the immune response to infection, and can be used as biomarkers to detect disease or predict disease progression.

See also

• Chemokines
• Interferons
• Interleukins
• Lymphokines
• Tumor necrosis factor

References

Cytokines Resources
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