An example of a cytokine is an interleukin (IL).
Cytokines are crucial components of the immune system. As described in the reference, a cytokine is a general term for small secreted proteins that are key modulators of inflammation. They are produced in response to invading pathogens and their function is to stimulate, recruit, and proliferate immune cells to fight off infection or respond to injury.
The reference specifically lists several categories of molecules that are considered cytokines:
- Interleukins (IL)
- Chemokines
- Interferons
- Tumor Necrosis Factors (TNF)
Therefore, any of these types can serve as an example.
Types of Cytokines
Let's look at these examples in a bit more detail based on their roles:
- Interleukins (IL): These are a large group of cytokines produced by various cell types, primarily leukocytes (white blood cells). They play diverse roles in regulating immune responses, including communication between immune cells. Examples include IL-1, IL-6, and IL-10, which are involved in inflammation, immune cell growth, and differentiation.
- Chemokines: These are a specific type of cytokine that acts as chemoattractants. This means they guide the migration of immune cells to specific sites of inflammation or injury, essentially acting as chemical signals that tell cells where to go.
- Interferons (IFN): Originally discovered for their ability to "interfere" with viral replication, interferons also play roles in activating immune cells, such as natural killer (NK) cells and macrophages, to combat viral infections and tumor growth.
- Tumor Necrosis Factors (TNF): TNF-alpha is a prominent example. These cytokines are involved in systemic inflammation, acute-phase responses, and cell death (apoptosis). They are critical in the body's response to infection but can also contribute to inflammatory diseases if dysregulated.
In summary, when asked for an example of a cytokine, naming one of the main types like Interleukin, Chemokine, Interferon, or Tumor Necrosis Factor is accurate and directly supported by the definition provided.
