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Interleukin-6

Last reviewed dd mmm yyyy. Last edited dd mmm yyyy

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Interleukin-6 is a protein cytokine involved in inflammatory and immune responses. It is produced by:

  • mononuclear phagocytes
  • fibroblasts
  • keratinocytes
  • endothelial cells

It is produced when the given cell encounters endotoxin. It is regulated by interleukin-1 and tumour necrosis factor.

Its effects include:

  • B-lymphocyte differentiation and immunoglobulin production
  • synthesis of acute phase proteins
  • pyrogen via its central action on prostaglandins
  • increases IL-2 and IL-2 receptor expression
  • inhibits the formation of TNF

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