What role does cytokines play in the immune response?

Cytokines play a crucial role in the immune response primarily by facilitating communication between cells. They are a broad category of small signaling proteins secreted by various cells, particularly those involved in immune responses, such as T cells and macrophages. When released, cytokines act as messengers that help regulate and coordinate the activities of the immune system. For instance, they can attract immune cells to sites of infection, enhance the activity of immune cells, and influence the behavior of other cells involved in immunity.

By enabling intercellular communication, cytokines help orchestrate the complex interactions needed for an effective immune response. This includes activating the appropriate immune cells, promoting inflammation, and regulating the overall immune system's activity to ensure a targeted response to pathogens while maintaining balance to avoid overreaction.

Understanding the role of cytokines is essential for comprehending how the immune system functions and how various therapies might manipulate these signals in diseases such as autoimmune disorders and cancers.