Citokintherápiák

Citokintherápiák, also known as cytokine therapy, are a class of treatments that utilize cytokines to modulate the immune system for therapeutic purposes. Cytokines are small proteins secreted by cells of the immune system and other cells that act as signaling molecules, influencing cell growth, differentiation, and behavior. In the context of therapy, these naturally occurring or synthetically produced cytokines are administered to patients to either stimulate an immune response or suppress an overactive one, depending on the condition being treated.

The primary application of cytokine therapies has been in oncology, where cytokines like interleukins and interferons have been used to enhance the body's ability to fight cancer cells. For example, high-dose interleukin-2 (IL-2) has been used to treat certain types of kidney cancer and melanoma by activating immune cells that can attack tumors. Interferons, such as interferon-alfa, have been employed in the treatment of viral infections like hepatitis C and some blood cancers.

Beyond cancer and infectious diseases, cytokine therapies are being explored for autoimmune disorders and inflammatory conditions. In these cases, the goal is to dampen an exaggerated immune response that is attacking the body's own tissues. Research is ongoing to develop more targeted and less toxic cytokine-based treatments, aiming to improve efficacy and minimize side effects associated with systemic cytokine administration. While promising, cytokine therapies require careful monitoring due to their potent effects on the immune system.