cytokine

[sahy-tuh-kahyn]

noun

1. a type of small protein, as interferon, secreted by certain cells, especially immune cells, that helps regulate the body’s immune response to inflammation and disease: The largest group of cytokines that stimulate immune cell proliferation are the interleukins.

   Cytokines are like the body’s messenger system for mobilizing its response to pathogens.

   The largest group of cytokines that stimulate immune cell proliferation are the interleukins.

cytokine

/ ˈsaɪtəʊˌkaɪn /

noun

1. any of various proteins, secreted by cells, that carry signals to neighbouring cells. Cytokines include interferon

cytokine

1. Any of several regulatory proteins, such as the interleukins and lymphokines, that are released by cells of the immune system and act as intercellular mediators in the generation of an immune response.

2. Also called chemokine

Word History and Origins

Origin of cytokine¹

First recorded in 1970–75; cyto- ( def. ) + -kine, from Greek kineîn “to move, set in motion”; -kinin ( def. )

Example Sentences

Scientists have long known that macrophages respond to muscle injury by releasing cytokines and chemokines that create inflammation, influence pain, and help drive the growth and regeneration of muscle fibers.

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Mice receiving arginine also performed better in behavioral assessments and showed decreased expression of pro-inflammatory cytokine genes linked to neuroinflammation, a key contributor to AD progression.

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When blood samples were analyzed, hot-water immersion was the only method that produced an inflammatory response as shown by increases in inflammatory cytokines and specific immune cell populations.

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T cells in treated animals stayed more active, released more immune-boosting cytokines, and were better at entering tumors.

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Together, these two factors helped control bacterial growth, minimize bone loss, balance the production of inflammatory molecules called cytokines, and stimulate fibroblasts, the cells that repair and maintain tissues.

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When To Use

What is a cytokine?

A cytokine is a type of protein released by cells in the body to carry messages to other cells. These messages tell the cells to do something, like to start an immune response.Cytokines get triggered by the presence of an antigen, which is any substance, such as a bacterium or virus, that causes the body to produce antibodies.There are many different types of cytokines. Common types are interleukins and lymphokines, which include the cytokines known as interferons.Cytokines play an important role in many different processes, including the regulation of inflammation and the immune response. Sometimes, though, too many cytokines get released. This is known as a cytokine storm, and it makes the body attack itself, resulting in potentially deadly damage to healthy tissue.