[Cytokines and their role in intercellular interactions]

Cytokines include interferons, colony-stimulating factors, interleukins and growth factors. 6 groups of cytokines are distinguished depending on the direction of their function. They provide regulation of intercellular interaction, initiate nonspecific inflammatory response, control growth and differentiation of hematopoietic and residential cells, activate the cells of the inflammatory infiltrate, stimulate hematopoiesis. Regulation of the cytokine activity is brought about at the level of their secretion, expression of the cytokines receptors as well as by means of other cytokines and soluble cytokine-binding factors and inhibitors. The use of cytokines and antibodies against them, receptor antagonists and soluble cytokine receptors is increasing for immunotherapy of various diseases.