Known as T cell growth factor. A cytokine (glycoprotein) secreted by (immune system response) stimulated helper T cells which promotes the proliferation/differentiation of more helper T cells, and promotes the growth of lymphocytes to combat an infection. Interleukin-2 also stimulates the lymphocytes to produce gamma interferon. It is gamma interferon that prompts the cytotoxic T cells to attack virus-infected cells and kill the virus within them. The structure of the gene that codes for synthesis of IL-2 (by immune system cells) was determined by Tadatsugu Taniguchi in 1983.
Chemical mediator produced by activated T lymphocytes and which regulates the proliferation of T cells, as well as playing a role in the regulation of NK cell activity.
An anticancer drug researched in 1987, appears to stimulate the body’s immune system to destroy cancer cells.
A protein which stimulates T-cell production, used in the treatment of cancer.
A cytokine produced by T helper lymphocytes, responsible for promoting the growth and multiplication of T-lymphocytes and activated B lymphocytes.