Home / Blood Tests / Interleukin 6

Interleukin 6

What is Interleukin 6 (IL-6)

Interleukin 6 (IL-6) is a protein that belongs to the cytokine family, which consists of signaling molecules involved in regulating immune responses.

Sources of IL-6

IL-6 is produced by several cell types, including T cells, B cells, macrophages, and fibroblasts.

Biological Functions

IL-6 plays a key role in:

Inflammation

Immune response

Hematopoiesis (blood cell formation)

Mechanism of Action

IL-6 binds to specific receptors on target cells, initiating intracellular signaling pathways that activate transcription factors and stimulate the expression of genes related to immune and inflammatory processes.

Regulation of Other Cytokines

IL-6 influences the production and activity of other cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF), interleukin-1 (IL-1), and interleukin-10 (IL-10).

Clinical Relevance

Dysregulation of IL-6 signaling has been associated with conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, multiple myeloma, and certain cancers. Therapies targeting IL-6 or its receptors are currently used in the treatment of these diseases.

There is an additional £20 phlebotomy fee for every donation.