Interleukins are a group of signaling molecules, or cytokines, that play important roles in cell communication within the immune system.
They are produced by various cells, including white blood cells, and are involved in regulating immune responses and inflammation.
Interleukins help coordinate the body’s defense against pathogens, promote the activation and proliferation of immune cells, and regulate the duration and strength of immune responses.
There are several types of interleukins, numbered from IL-1 to IL-38, with each type having its own specific functions.
For example, IL-1 is involved in initiating inflammation, while IL-2 plays a role in stimulating the proliferation of T cells, a type of immune cell.
Other interleukins, such as IL-6 and IL-10, have pro-inflammatory or anti-inflammatory effects, respectively
interleukins contribute to our understanding of the immune system and its involvement in various diseases.
Some therapeutic interventions, such as targeted drugs or immunotherapies, aim to modulate or block specific interleukins to treat conditions like autoimmune diseases, cancer, and inflammatory disorders.