Definition:
Interleukins are a group of cytokines (small proteins) that play a crucial role in regulating the immune system, including inflammation, cell signaling, and the body's response to infections or injuries.
Phonetic Pronunciation:
(in-ter-LOO-kins)
Etymological Origin:
The term "interleukin" is derived from the prefix inter-, meaning "between," and leukin, which comes from the Greek word leukos, meaning "white," referring to white blood cells. The term was coined in the 1970s to describe proteins that mediate communication between immune cells.
Significance in Asbestos Context:
Interleukins are significant in the asbestos context because they are involved in the inflammatory and immune responses triggered by asbestos exposure. For example, asbestos fibers can stimulate the release of interleukins, such as interleukin-1 (IL-1) and interleukin-6 (IL-6), which contribute to chronic inflammation and the development of diseases like asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. Understanding interleukins helps researchers explore potential therapeutic targets for managing asbestos-related diseases.
Synonyms or Related Terms:
Example Sentence:
"Research has shown that interleukins, particularly IL-1 and IL-6, play a key role in the inflammatory response caused by asbestos fibers, contributing to the progression of mesothelioma."
Common Misconceptions:
