citotoksines

Cytokines are a broad and loose category of small proteins important in cell signaling. They are released by cells and affect the behavior of other cells. Cytokines are critical components of the immune system and are involved in regulating inflammation, immunity, and hematopoiesis. They can act locally or systemically, and their effects can be pleiotropic, meaning a single cytokine can have multiple effects on different cell types. Conversely, their actions can also be redundant, with different cytokines mediating similar functions.

The term "cytokine" encompasses a variety of signaling molecules, including interleukins, interferons, tumor necrosis factor, and chemokines. These molecules are produced by a wide range of cells, including immune cells like lymphocytes and macrophages, as well as non-immune cells such as fibroblasts and endothelial cells. Cytokines exert their effects by binding to specific receptors on target cells, triggering intracellular signaling pathways that alter gene expression and cellular function.

Cytokines play essential roles in both innate and adaptive immunity. They can promote or suppress inflammatory responses, enhance the activity of immune cells, and facilitate communication between different components of the immune system. Dysregulation of cytokine production or signaling is implicated in a variety of diseases, including autoimmune disorders, allergies, and cancer. Therapeutic strategies often target cytokine pathways to modulate immune responses in these conditions.