Cytokines are small proteins that are released by cells in the immune system in response to a stimulus, such as an infection or inflammation. They play a crucial role in cell signaling and coordinating the body's response to infection, inflammation, and trauma. Cytokines can have both pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory effects, and abnormal cytokine levels have been implicated in a variety of diseases, including autoimmune disorders, cancer, and chronic inflammatory conditions.
