Cytokines

[datgirl1]

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Anyone know the basic info about cytokines, interferons and interleukins? I keep confusing them with each other. There's a lot of info about this on other forums but it seems very complicated and over the scope of the exam.

 

[DDSDCMUU]

I would just know the basics since there are a lot of cytokines. For example, interferon is expressed in virus infected cells to warn neighboring cells of a viral infection, etc. Good luck!

 

[FeralisExtremum]

For the purposes of the DAT:

Cytokines - a very broad category of proteins used in cell signaling. They aren't specific to just the immune system.

Interleukins - these are a specific group of cytokines that function in the immune system. Secreted primarily by helper T-cells to stimulate proliferation and differentiation of T-cells and B-cells. There are many different types of interleukins with more specific functions, but this knowledge is pretty detailed and likely beyond the scope of the DAT.

Interferons - secreted by cells invaded by viruses/pathogens that stimulate nearby cells to initiate defense mechanisms against the virus/pathogen.

Let me know if you need any further detail or explanation.