Cytokines: an overview

This review is an introduction to cytokines and their involvement in various mechanisms of immune defense. These features are then exemplified by reference to cytokines in sepsis, malaria, rheumatoid arthritis and schistosomiasis. In so doing the different functions of T-helper-1 and T-helper-2 lymphocytes become apparent, and how the balance is manipulated by the body in response to particular invading agents. Finally the prospect of therapy to reinforce or negate particular cytokines is illustrated by examples.