IL

IL or Interleukin is a group of cytokines (secreted proteins and signal molecules) that were first seen to be expressed by white blood cells (leukocytes). The function of the interleukin is to modulate the immune system, in most cases, by promoting inflammation and immune responses.

Function

Interleukins are a type of cytokine that were first identified in the context of their ability to modulate the activity of white blood cells (leukocytes). However, it is now known that interleukins are produced by and act on a variety of other cells, including fibroblasts, endothelial cells, macrophages, and various types of T and B cells. Interleukins have a broad range of functions, but most are involved in promoting the development and differentiation of T and B lymphocytes, and hematopoietic cells.

Types of Interleukins

There are currently 40 known interleukins, numbered from IL-1 to IL-40, and many have been grouped into families based on their biochemical properties. Some interleukins are monomeric, while others are multimeric. Some interleukins are produced by many different types of cells, while others are produced by only a few cell types.

Clinical Significance

Interleukins have been implicated in a variety of diseases, including cancer, autoimmune diseases, and infectious diseases. They are also involved in the immune response to injury and trauma. Some interleukins are used clinically as therapeutic agents, while others are targets of therapeutic intervention.

See Also

• Cytokines
• White blood cells
• Immune system
• Inflammation
• Autoimmune diseases
• Cancer
• Infectious diseases

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