What does IL-6 do?

Interleukin 6 (IL-6), promptly and transiently produced in response to infections and tissue injuries, contributes to host defense through the stimulation of acute phase responses, hematopoiesis, and immune reactions.

Which cells express IL-6 receptor?

Kidney resident cells, including podocytes, endothelial cells, mesangial cells, and tubular epithelial cells (TECs) can secrete IL-6 under certain milieu. Podocyte is the only resident cell that expresses IL-6R, while others do not express IL-6R and not employ classic IL-6 signaling (87, 88) (Table 1).

How does IL-6 signal?

In classical signaling, IL-6 binds to its membrane-bound receptor (IL6R/mIL6R), inducing the formation of a heterohexameric complex containing two molecules each of IL-6, IL6R, and the IL-6 receptor subunit β (gp130).

What are cytokines and what do they do?

Cytokines are small proteins that are crucial in controlling the growth and activity of other immune system cells and blood cells. When released, they signal the immune system to do its job. Cytokines affect the growth of all blood cells and other cells that help the body’s immune and inflammation responses.

Does IL-6 reduce inflammation?

In autoimmune diseases, IL-6 not only maintains inflammation but also modifies the immune responses.

Is IL-6 pro inflammatory and anti-inflammatory?

Research Highlights. ► The cytokine interleukin-6 (IL-6) has pro- and anti-inflammatory properties. ► Whereas only few cells express the IL-6 receptor and respond to IL-6 (classic signaling), all cells can be stimulated via a soluble IL-6 receptor (trans-signaling) since gp130 is ubiquitously expressed.

How do I increase my cytokines?

Omega-3 fatty acids cause more of the anti-inflammatory cytokines to be made. The modern American diet is very low in omega-3 fatty acids. It is difficult to get enough of them without making a conscious effort to eat high omega-3 foods. Flax seeds are one of the best vegetarian sources of omega-3s.