Interleukin 6 LIS Code: IL-6
Measure interleukin-6 levels to assess inflammation and immune response. Accurate private testing.
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About this test
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.
