Cytokines are proteins released by cells; examples of cytokines include interferons and interleukins. Cytokines affect the immune system, and they may aid in the production and activation of certain white blood cells (T-lymphocytes) to fight infection.
Cytokines also have antiviral and antitumor properties. For example, interferons may be used to treat tumors, including AIDS-related Kaposi's sarcoma.1
Credits
| Author | Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS |
| Editor | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Peter Shalit, MD, PhD - Internal Medicine |
| Last Updated | June 6, 2007 |
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