Cytokine

{
  "id": "MLC-T-CHM-002836",
  "term": "Cytokine",
  "field": "Chemistry",
  "definition": "A small protein or peptide that acts as a signaling molecule between cells, particularly in the immune system. These molecules regulate cell growth, differentiation, and immune responses by binding to specific receptors on target cells. Cytokines include interleukins, interferons, and chemokines, each with distinct biological functions.",
  "subject": "Chemistry and Human Health",
  "see_also": [
    "autocrine",
    "colony-stimulating factor",
    "immune system",
    "lymphocyte",
    "lymphokine",
    "monocyte",
    "monokine",
    "transforming growth factor β",
    "tumor necrosis factor"
  ],
  "references": [
    "PAC, 2012, 84, 1113. 'IUPAC glossary of terms used in immunotoxicology (IUPAC Recommendations 2012)' on page 1153 (https://doi.org/10.1351/PAC-REC-11-06-03)"
  ],
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/chemistry/cytokine/"
}