THE ROLE OF CYTOKINES IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF AUTOIMMUNE DISEASES
Keywords:
cytokines, autoimmune diseases, immune dysregulation, inflammation, TNF-α, IL-6, IL-10.Abstract
Cytokines are small signaling proteins that play a pivotal role in regulating immune responses and maintaining immune system homeostasis. Dysregulation of cytokine production or signaling can contribute to the development and progression of autoimmune diseases by promoting chronic inflammation, aberrant activation of immune cells, and tissue damage. Both pro-inflammatory cytokines (such as TNF-α, IL-1, and IL-6) and anti-inflammatory cytokines (such as IL-10 and TGF-β) are involved in maintaining the delicate balance between immune tolerance and immune activation. Emerging evidence highlights the complex interplay between cytokines, genetic predisposition, and environmental triggers in the pathogenesis of autoimmune disorders. Understanding the role of cytokines is crucial for developing targeted immunotherapies and improving disease management [1,2].
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