Interieukins are Signaling Molecules Produced by Activated Lymphocytes
Interieukins are large group of group of signaling molecules (cytokines). These are polypeptides produced by an activated lymphocyte and involved in signaling between cells in the immune system as part of the immune response and in the formation of blood. There are several different interleukins with different activities and some have applications in the treatment of diseases, such as cancer. Interleukin 2 (IL-2) stimulates T-lymphocytes and is being investigated for the treatment of cancer. Iinterleukin-3 (IL-3) is a growth factor for myeloid and platelet precursors in the bone marrow.