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Interleukin Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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interleukin

[หŒษชntษ™rหˆluหkษชn ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

biological term

Interleukin refers to a group of cytokines that are produced by white blood cells and play a crucial role in the immune system. They are important for cell signaling and help regulate immune responses, inflammation, and the development of blood cells. Different interleukins have different functions, affecting both innate and adaptive immune responses within the body. Research into interleukins has significant implications for understanding immune-related disorders.

Synonyms

cytokine, immune factor.

Examples of usage

  • Interleukin-6 is often elevated in patients with chronic inflammation.
  • Scientists are studying interleukin signaling pathways to develop new therapies.
  • The role of interleukins in autoimmune diseases is a vital area of research.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Biological Function

  • Interleukins play crucial roles in immune responses, helping to regulate inflammation and the formation of blood cells.
  • They are produced by various cells, including T cells, B cells, and macrophages, each type having distinct roles in the immune system.
  • Different interleukins have specific functions, such as promoting cell growth, activating immune cells, or stimulating the production of antibodies.

Medical Relevance

  • Research has shown that certain interleukin levels can indicate autoimmune diseases or the severity of infections.
  • Therapeutically, interleukins can be targeted for treatments in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and certain cancers.

Pop Culture

  • Interleukins often appear in science-based documentaries when discussing the immune system and health.
  • Although not commonly referenced in mainstream media, they have piqued interest in biohacking and wellness communities focusing on optimizing immune function.

Psychology and Health

  • Studies have suggested a link between stress and the levels of certain interleukins, highlighting the mind-body connection in health.
  • Emerging research is exploring how lifestyle factors, such as diet and exercise, can influence interleukin levels and overall immune health.

Origin of 'interleukin'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'interleukin' comes from Latin roots, where 'inter-' means 'between' and 'leukin' is derived from 'leukos,' meaning 'white,' referencing white blood cells.
  • First identified in the 1970s, interleukins were initially discovered as a way to understand how white blood cells communicate.

The term 'interleukin' was coined in the 1970s as researchers began identifying various signaling molecules associated with immune responses. The prefix 'inter-' means 'between', indicating that these proteins are typically produced by one type of immune cell and act on another, facilitating communication between cells. Over the years, scientists have identified many different interleukins, each designated by a number (e.g., interleukin-1, interleukin-2, etc.), based on the order they were discovered. Their role in the immune system makes interleukins a key focus in medical research, particularly in the context of inflammatory diseases, cancer, and therapeutic applications. The study of interleukins has grown significantly, leading to potential clinical applications involving monoclonal antibodies targeting specific interleukins.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,508, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.