Pathophysiologic aspects of lymphokines

Lymphokines have been known to be part of the immune system during almost the last three decades; within the last decade the information on their production, biochemical and biological characteristics has grown immensely. Their study has contributed significantly in the understanding of the physiological aspects of the immune responses. Recently, information has started being accumulated on their role in the pathogenesis of various diseases. Abnormalities of their production, and their ability to modify certain effector cell functions have been described. In this review, we will attempt to view the extensive information on lymphokines from a pathophysiologic perspective.