Cytokines and inflammation

Abstract

Numerous cytokines are present in inflammatory foci. Two of them, interleukin-1 (IL-1) and tumour necrosis factor (TNF), play a major role in coordinating mechanisms which command inflammation. Under their action many cells produce lipidic mediators, proteolytic enzymes or free radicals, all factors that are directly responsible for the noxious effects observed. IL-1 and/or TNF exert cytotoxic activities on vascular epithelium, cartilage, bone, muscle or beta cells of pancreatic islets. Such cytokines as interferon gamma (IFN gamma), IL-3 or granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF) amplify the inflammatory response by increasing the production of IL-1 and TNF by macrophages. GM-CSF also produces other cytokines, such as IL-8 and the macrophage chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1), the chemotactic properties of which participate in the recruitment of leucocytes within the focus of inflammation. IL-6 abounds in inflammatory processes and induces the production by hepatocytes of acute inflammation phase proteins. The same applies to IL-1, TNF, IL-11, the leukaemia inhibitory factor (LIF) or the transforming growth factor beta (TGF beta). The latter also possesses a number of anti-inflammatory activities and, like IL-4 and IL-10, can inhibit IL-1 and TNF production. Glucocorticoids have this potential activity, and they may be produced by a cascade of events initiated by IL-1, TNF and IL-6, involving the neuroendocrine system. The concept of "cytokine network", therefore, perfectly illustrates the participation of these mediators in inflammatory mechanisms.