Cytokine Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
💉
cytokine
[ˈsaɪtə(ʊ)kaɪn ]
Definition
biological science
Cytokines are small proteins that are important in cell signaling. They are produced by a variety of cells in the body and can have effects on immune responses, inflammation, and the development of blood cells. Cytokines play a vital role in the immune system and help to determine the effectiveness and duration of immune response.
Synonyms
immune mediator, signal molecule.
Examples of usage
- Cytokines are released during an infection.
- Researchers study cytokines to understand immune responses.
- Cytokines can influence the behavior of other cells.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- Cytokines are produced by immune cells and play a crucial role in the body's response to inflammation and infection.
- They can act in short bursts or over longer periods, influencing everything from healing to the development of autoimmune diseases.
- There are many types, including interleukins, interferons, and tumor necrosis factors, each with unique functions.
Health
- An imbalance in cytokines can lead to various health problems, including severe conditions such as sepsis or chronic inflammatory diseases.
- Research suggests that some cytokines play a role in the aging process and can affect how the body reacts to stress.
Pop Culture
- Cytokines gained attention during the COVID-19 pandemic as scientists studied their role in the immune response to the virus.
- They are often referenced in discussions about advanced medicine, such as immunotherapies for cancer treatments.
Literature
- Cytokines are frequently discussed in scientific journals, often involving breakthroughs in understanding cell communication and their implications on health.
- The discovery of cytokines is viewed as a transformative element in the understanding of immune system function, frequently highlighted in medical textbooks.
Origin of 'cytokine'
Main points about word origin
- The word combines the Greek 'kytos' meaning 'cell' and 'kinein' which means 'to move' – emphasizing their role in cell communication.
- First used in scientific literature in the late 20th century, highlighting the rise of immunology as a key field of study.
The term 'cytokine' originated from the combination of the Greek word 'cyto-', meaning 'cell', and 'kinein', meaning 'to move or set in motion'. The concept of cytokines began to take shape in the 1970s, as scientists started to understand the complex interactions of immune cells. Initially, cytokines were referred to by specific functions or individual names, such as interleukins and interferons. Over time, the collective term 'cytokine' was adopted to refer to this diverse group of proteins, acknowledging their role in communication between cells during processes like immune response, hematopoiesis, and inflammation. The study of cytokines has significantly advanced our understanding of many diseases, including autoimmune disorders, infections, and cancer.