cytokine

noun

cy·​to·​kine ˈsī-tə-ˌkīn How to pronounce cytokine (audio)
plural cytokines
: any of a class of immunoregulatory proteins (such as interleukin or interferon) that are secreted by cells especially of the immune system
Most cytokines are produced primarily in the presence of disease or immunization and contribute to immune responses, inflammation, and endothelial cell activation; others are involved in tissue repair.Charles A. Dinarello et al.
The proinflammatory cytokine interleukin-2 determines the magnitude and duration of the T-cell response immediately after antigen encounter and assists in the maturation of macrophages and the proliferation of B cells and natural killer cells …Chiea C. Khor et al.

Examples of cytokine in a Sentence

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As fat storage cells get larger, this attracts invasion by immune cells that produce inflammatory chemicals called cytokines. Bryant Stamford, The Courier-Journal, 5 July 2024 The ASCs of the hypodermis secrete and regulate a variety of cytokines and chemokines that impact skin behavior, melanin production, immuno modulatory function and skin rejuvenation. Bianca Salonga, Forbes, 20 Sep. 2024 This immune malfunction is typically accompanied by the release of inflammatory molecules called cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF). Devineé Lingo, M.s., Rdn, Health, 6 Sep. 2024 The researchers noted that ginger and turmeric reduced the production of cytokines (which are inflammatory proteins) and decreased the production of inflammatory cells. Heidi Moawad, Verywell Health, 23 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for cytokine 

Word History

Etymology

cyt- + -kine (as in lymphokine)

First Known Use

1974, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cytokine was in 1974

Dictionary Entries Near cytokine

Cite this Entry

“Cytokine.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cytokine. Accessed 7 Dec. 2024.

Medical Definition

cytokine

noun
cy·​to·​kine ˈsīt-ə-ˌkīn How to pronounce cytokine (audio)
: any of a class of immunoregulatory proteins (as interleukin, tumor necrosis factor, and interferon) that are secreted by cells especially of the immune system

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