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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.

cytokine

/ˈsaɪtoʊkaɪn/ /ˈsaɪtəʊkaɪn/

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.

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