A family of potent proteins that serve as a link between inducer and effector cells during immune and inflammatory responses; involved in the recruitment of immune and inflammatory precursor cells. Some interleukins have been implicated in the pathogenesis of periodontal diseases.
A group of naturally occurring proteins and is a subset of a larger group of cellular messenger molecules called cytokines, which are modulators of cellular behavior.
Soluble factors which stimulate growth-related activities of leukocytes as well as other cell types. They enhance cell proliferation and differentiation, DNA synthesis, secretion of other biologically active molecules and responses to immune and inflammatory stimuli.
Soluble polypeptide mediators, produced by activated lymphocytes and other cells during immune and inflammatory response, such as IL1, IL6.
A large group of hormonelike substances produced by white blood cells. Interleukins are part of the immune system and stimulate the body to fight infection and disease. They have become important in fighting some cancers.
Interleukins are lymphokines that is, polypeptides produced by activated lymphocytes. They are involved in signalling between cells of the immune system and are released by several cell types, including lymphocytes. They interact to control the immune response of cells and also participate in haemopoiesis. There are seven varieties, interleukins 1 to 7. For example, interleukin 1 is produced as a result of inflammation and stimulates the proliferation of T and B lymphocytes, enhancing the immune response by stimulating other lymphogytes and activating dormant T cells. Interleukin 2 has anti-cancer effects, as it is able to activate T lymphocytes to become killer cells which destroy foreign antigens such as cancer cells; this anti-cancer effect is being developed for clinical use. The remaining interleukins have a range of properties in cell growth and differentiation.
Cytokines that play a role in regulating the immune system, specifically IL-12 and IL-23, exhibit excessive activity in the case of psoriasis, a skin condition.