cytokine
SY-toh-kyne
/ˈsaɪtəkaɪn/
A small signaling protein secreted by cells that mediates and regulates immunity, inflammation, and blood cell formation.
Focuses on intercellular molecular signaling that coordinates cellular action during immune activity.
The story behind the word. Coined in 1974 from Greek 'kytos' (vessel or cell) and 'kinesis' (movement). It described substances that set cells into motion or signal cellular behaviors during host defenses.
Word relationships
- immunomodulator: Immunomodulator is a general term for any agent affecting immunity, whereas cytokine is a specific biological protein messenger.
Commonly confused with
- chemokine: Chemokines are a specific sub-class of cytokines that specifically direct cellular movement (chemotaxis).
Word family
- cytokinetic (adjective): Relating to cellular movement or signaling dynamics
Collocations
- cytokine storm
- pro-inflammatory cytokine
- cytokine release
- cytokine profile
Example sentences
- "During severe viral infections, an uncontrolled release of inflammatory proteins known as a cytokine storm can cause organ damage." Immunology lecture
- "The drug acts by blocking specific cytokine receptors, thereby reducing systemic inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis." Scientific paper
Memory hook
CYTO-KINE = CYTO (cell) + KINE (kinetic/movement); proteins that move cells into action. Cell-action messenger protein
When not to use
Do not confuse with hormones (which travel through endocrine channels across distant systemic organs) or neurotransmitters (which cross synaptic gaps).
Fun facts
- Interferons and interleukins are two famous families of cytokines.
- The fever you experience during flu is caused directly by cytokines resetting your hypothalamus thermostat.
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