An<unk>  or proinflammatory cytokine is a type of signaling molecule (a cytokine) that is secreted from immune cells like helper T cells (Th) and macrophages, and certain other cell types that promote inflammation. They include interleukin-1 (IL-1), IL-6, IL-12, and IL-18, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interferon gamma (IFNγ), and granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF) and play an important role in mediating the innate immune response.<unk> s are predominantly produced by and involved in the upregulation of<unk>  reactions. Excessive chronic production of<unk> s contribute to<unk>  diseases, that have been linked to different diseases, such as atherosclerosis and cancer. Dysregulation has also been linked to depression and other neurological diseases. A balance between proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines is necessary to maintain health. Aging and exercise also play a role in the amount of inflammation from the release of proinflammatory cytokines. Therapies to treat<unk>  diseases include monoclonal antibodies that either neutralize<unk> s or their receptors.
Inflammatory cytokine
Cytokine
Lymphokine
Tumor antigen
Autoantibody
Autoimmune regulator
Gastrointestinal hormone
Acute-phase protein