Abstract

INTERLEUKIN 6 AS THE MOST INTRIGUING CYTOKINE IN MODULATING IMMUNOMETABOLISM

Thiago Lahass Souza dos Santos, Marcio V. A. Verli, Luis C. O. Gonçalves*, Anibal M. M. Neto

ABSTRACT

Interleukin 6 is a protein acting as an intercellular signaler mainly associated with the control of immune responses, secreted by macrophages and lymphocytes. In addition to its role in acute phase reactions, interleukin 6 has functions in cases of chronic inflammation, autoimmune diseases, fibrinogenesis and a strong response to strenuous exercise, with the most recent research having sought to explain its effects on metabolism and exercise. Thus as the administration of blockade of specific receptors of this cytokine in the treatment of diseases, which demonstrates the relevance of its role in human health. Therefore, the aim of the present work is to elucidate the fundamental mechanisms of the action of interleukin 6 in different aspects within human physiology through a literature review. Interleukin 6 is involved in several activities in the human body and its functions as a cytokine range from the proliferation of cells in the immune system to the regulation of metabolism, and even after more than three decades of its discovery, it continues to prove more versatile. Being able to control the working mechanism of such an enigmatic cytokine can help in the development of strategies for the treatment of various diseases, for this purpose, encouragement for further research focusing on IL-6 is needed to elucidate the functioning of this cytokine.

Keywords: Biochemistry; Metabolism; Immune system.