Tulehdusvälittäjät

Tulehdusvälittäjät, also known as inflammatory mediators, are signaling molecules that play a crucial role in the body's immune response and inflammation process. They are produced and released by various cells, including immune cells like macrophages and mast cells, as well as damaged tissue cells. These mediators orchestrate the complex cascade of events that characterize inflammation, which is a protective mechanism against infection and injury.

There are numerous types of tulehdusvälittäjät, each with distinct functions. Some of the key categories include cytokines, chemokines, prostaglandins, leukotrienes, and histamine. Cytokines, such as interleukins and tumor necrosis factor, can promote or suppress inflammation, influence immune cell activity, and induce fever. Chemokines are essential for guiding immune cells to the site of inflammation. Prostaglandins and leukotrienes, derived from fatty acids, contribute to pain, swelling, and fever, and also affect blood vessel permeability. Histamine, released by mast cells, is a potent vasodilator and increases vascular permeability, leading to redness and swelling.

The actions of tulehdusvälittäjät are tightly regulated. While essential for healing and defense, uncontrolled or excessive release can lead to chronic inflammation and contribute to various diseases, including arthritis, asthma, and cardiovascular conditions. Understanding the roles of these mediators is vital for developing therapeutic strategies to manage inflammatory disorders. Many anti-inflammatory drugs work by inhibiting the production or action of specific tulehdusvälittäjät.