Cytokines


These soluble proteins are secreted by lymphocytes (lymphokines), monocytes-macrophages (monokines), and NK cells, as well as other cell types. They act as effector molecules influencing the behavior of B cells, T cells, NK cells, monocytes, macrophages, hematopoietic cells, and many other cell types
Sample Cytokine Functions
Cytokine Source Major Functions
Interleukin-1 (IL-1) Monocytes, macrophages, and other cells Stimulates T-cell proliferation and IL-2 production
Interleukin-2 (IL-2) Macrophages, T cells, and NK cells Stimulates proliferation of T cells, B cells, and NK cells; activates monocytes
Interleukin-3 (IL-3) T cells Acts as growth factor for tissue mast cells and hematopoietic stem cells
Interleukin-4 (IL-4) T cells Promotes growth of B and T cells; enhances expression of HLA class II antigens
Interleukin-5 (IL-5) T cells Promotes end-stage maturation of B cells into plasma cells
Interleukin-6 (IL-6) T cells, monocytes, and other cells Promotes maturation of B and T cells; inhibits growth of fibroblasts
Interferon-α (IFN-α) B cells and macrophages Has antiviral activity
Interferon-β (IFN-β) Fibroblasts Has antiviral activity
Interferon-γ (IFN-γ) T cells and NK cells Has antiviral activity; activates macrophages; enhances expression of HLA class II antigens
Tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α, cachectin) Macrophages, T cells, and NK cells Stimulates T-cell proliferation and IL-2 production; cytotoxic to some tumor cells
Tumor necrosis factor β (TNF-β) T cells Stimulates T-cell proliferation and IL-2 production; cytotoxic to some tumor cells

 

Immune System

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