Immuunivälittäjiä

Immuunivälittäjiä, or immune mediators, are crucial signaling molecules that orchestrate the complex communication within the immune system. These molecules are produced by various immune cells, as well as other cells in the body, in response to stimuli such as infection, injury, or inflammation. Their primary role is to coordinate the appropriate immune response, ensuring that the body can effectively defend itself against pathogens and repair damaged tissues.

There are several broad categories of immune mediators. Cytokines are a diverse group of small proteins that play a central role in cell-to-cell communication and regulate various aspects of immune function, including cell growth, differentiation, and activation. Chemokines are a specific type of cytokine that attract immune cells to sites of inflammation or infection. Eicosanoids, derived from fatty acids, are potent lipid mediators that influence inflammation, blood clotting, and smooth muscle contraction. Histamine, released primarily by mast cells, is a well-known mediator of allergic reactions and inflammation, causing vasodilation and increased vascular permeability.

The action of immune mediators is highly specific, binding to particular receptors on target cells to elicit a precise response. This intricate network of signaling ensures that immune responses are targeted, efficient, and appropriately regulated, preventing excessive damage to the host tissues. Dysregulation of immune mediators can lead to various autoimmune diseases and inflammatory conditions.