cytokine

noun

cy·​to·​kine ˈsī-tə-ˌkīn 

plural cytokines

: any of a class of immunoregulatory proteins (such as interleukin or interferon) that are secreted by cells especially of the immune system

Most cytokines are produced primarily in the presence of disease or immunization and contribute to immune responses, inflammation, and endothelial cell activation; others are involved in tissue repair.

—Charles A. Dinarello et al.

The proinflammatory cytokine interleukin-2 determines the magnitude and duration of the T-cell response immediately after antigen encounter and assists in the maturation of macrophages and the proliferation of B cells and natural killer cells …

—Chiea C. Khor et al.

Examples of cytokine in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

When your sleep is disrupted or inadequate, your cytokines can become dysregulated. —Heidi Moawad, Verywell Health, 5 Dec. 2024

Within each cell, the scientists were able to map out changes to histones, proteins that help control the release of other proteins called cytokines, which help regulate inflammation and can impact pregnancy, according to the study. —Sharon Udasin, The Hill, 29 Nov. 2024

Studies in animals and humans have shown that diabetes is associated with persistent low-grade systemic inflammation due to a class of small proteins called pro-inflammatory cytokines. —New Atlas, 29 Nov. 2024

As fat storage cells get larger, this attracts invasion by immune cells that produce inflammatory chemicals called cytokines. —Bryant Stamford, The Courier-Journal, 5 July 2024

Word History

Etymology

cyt- + -kine (as in lymphokine)

First Known Use

1974, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing cytokine

• cytokine release syndrome
• cytokine storm
• cytokine storm syndrome

Medical Definition

cytokine

noun

cy·​to·​kine ˈsīt-ə-ˌkīn 

: any of a class of immunoregulatory proteins (as interleukin, tumor necrosis factor, and interferon) that are secreted by cells especially of the immune system