inflammatory cytokines

Inflammatory cytokines are small proteins produced by your body's immune cells to help coordinate the response to injury or infection. They act like messengers, signaling immune cells to move to the affected area, promote inflammation to contain threats, and facilitate healing. While essential for defending against pathogens, excessive or prolonged production of these cytokines can lead to chronic inflammation, which may damage tissues and contribute to various diseases. Think of cytokines as the body's communication system that directs immune activity—necessary for protection, but needing regulation to prevent harm.