IL-4

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

IL-4 or Interleukin 4 is a type of interleukin that is a cytokine produced by T cells in response to antigen stimulation. It has many roles in the immune system, including the stimulation of activated B-cell and T-cell proliferation, and the differentiation of B cells into plasma cells. It is a key regulator in humoral and adaptive immunity.

Function[edit | edit source]

IL-4 induces B-cell class switching to IgE, and up-regulates MHC class II production. IL-4 decreases the production of Th1 cells, macrophages, IFN-gamma, and dendritic cell IL-12. Overproduction of IL-4 is associated with allergies.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

IL-4 has been associated with several diseases including asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, and cancer. It is also involved in the pathogenesis of allergies and autoimmune diseases.

See also[edit | edit source]

IL-4 Resources
Doctor showing form.jpg
Wiki.png

Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD


Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.

Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.


Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD