Question

Cytokines are small proteins that transfer information within the immune system. List the actions of

cytokines given in this Topic:

Answer 1

Cytokines are crucial small proteins within the immune system that facilitate cell communication, trigger immune responses like interferon release against viruses, and stimulate local immune system cells through autocrine or paracrine actions.

Step-by-step explanation:

Cytokines are small proteins that act as chemical signals within the immune system. They perform several functions:

• Cytokines enable communication between immune cells, acting as signaling molecules to change the physiology of the receiving cell.
• Interferons, a class of cytokines, are released by infected cells to warn neighboring uninfected cells about viral infections and stimulate defense mechanisms.
• They can also stimulate the immune response by promoting cell differentiation, proliferation, and the production of other important factors involved in the immune defense.

In addition to facilitating short-range communication as soluble molecules, cytokines can also function as autocrine or paracrine factors to regulate the immune response against diseases locally.