Cytokine - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
A cytokine is a small protein released by cells to communicate and regulate immune responses, inflammation, and cell growth. They act as signaling molecules in the body.
Definition:
Small proteins crucial for cell signaling in immune responses and inflammation.
Synonyms:
interleukin, chemokine, interferon, lymphokine
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
inhibitor, antagonist, suppressor
Common Collocations:
cytokine storm, cytokine release, cytokine production, cytokine signaling
Derivatives:
cytokinesis, cytokinin
Usage Tips:
Use "cytokine" when discussing immune system proteins involved in communication between cells.
Common Phrases:
cytokine storm, cytokine cascade, cytokine network
Etymology:
From Greek "kytos" (cell) and "kinos" (movement), referring to cell-signaling molecules.
Examples:
- 1. Cytokines help regulate the body's immune response.
- 2. A cytokine storm can cause severe inflammation.
- 3. Doctors monitor cytokine levels in autoimmune diseases.
- 4. Researchers study cytokines to develop new treatments.