Cytokines are small secreted proteins released by cells have a specific effect on the interactions and communications between cells. Cytokines are made by many cell populations, but the predominant producers are helper T cells (Th) and macrophages. Cytokine is a general name; other names include lymphokine (cytokines made by lymphocytes), monokine (cytokines made by monocytes), chemokine (cytokines with chemotactic activities), and interleukin (cytokines made by one leukocyte and acting on other leukocytes).
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