Lymphokines are biologically active protein substances that are produced by lymphocytes and other cells of the immune system.
The term "lymphokines" is derived from the words "lympho-" and the Greek "kineo", which means "to set in motion." This reflects the ability of lymphokines to regulate the functions of other immunocompetent cells.
Lymphokines play an important role in regulating the immune response. They stimulate the proliferation and differentiation of lymphocytes, activate phagocytosis, enhance the cytotoxic activity of killer cells and other immune processes. Thus, lymphokines perform regulatory and effector functions in the immune system.
Lymphocytes are white blood cells that participate in the human immune system. They play an important role in protecting the body from infections and other pathogenic factors. However, after activation, lymphocytes do not die, but continue to exist inside the body in the form of so-called memory lymphocytes.
Lymphokines are biologically active substances that are produced by lymphocytes and help regulate immune responses. Lymphokines can have both positive and negative effects on the body. They can stimulate or suppress the activity of the immune system, increase or decrease inflammation, etc.
One of the most well-known lymphokines is interferon. It is produced by lymphocytes in response to viral infection and helps fight viruses. Interferon can also suppress the growth of malignant cells.
Another example of a lymphokine is tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α). TNF-α is also produced by lymphocytes, but in response to bacterial infection. This lymphokine helps destroy bacteria and destroy their toxins.
In addition, lymphokines play an important role in regulating the immune system. For example, they can regulate the production of antibodies and other defense mechanisms.
However, although lymphokines are important regulators of the immune system, they can also cause side effects. For example, interferon can cause side effects such as headache, nausea, fatigue, etc., and TNF-α can cause inflammation and tissue damage.
In general, lymphokines are an important component of the human immune system, which plays an important role in the fight against infections and other pathological factors. However, their use must be strictly controlled to avoid possible side effects.