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Updated: Jun 25, 2026

Visualization of Inflammatory Caspases Induced Proximity in Human Monocyte-Derived Macrophages
Published on: April 6, 2022
Activin and related proteins in inflammation: not just interested bystanders
David J Phillips1, David M de Kretser, Mark P Hedger
1Monash Institute of Medical Research, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia. david.phillips@med.monash.edu.au
Abstract:
Activin A, a member of the transforming growth factor-beta superfamily, is released rapidly into the circulation during inflammation. This review examines the evidence that activin is a critical mediator of inflammation and immunity. Activin modulates several aspects of the inflammatory response, including release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, nitric oxide production and immune cell activity. Crucially, inhibiting activin with follistatin, a high affinity binding protein, alters the pattern of cytokines released and improves survival in a mouse model of endotoxic shock. Serum and tissue concentrations of activin are elevated in a wide range of pathological conditions. The utility of activin as a diagnostic marker of clinical inflammation and the use of follistatin to block activin actions therapeutically are also discussed.
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