CytokinesGeneral properties of cytokines1) PleiotropismOne
cytokine can have multiple effects on different target cellsHighly
regulated networkDifficult to individualize the precise role of a
given cytokine
General properties of cytokines2) Redundancy
Multiple cytokines have the same overlapping actionsAntagonists
against a single cytokine may not have functional consequences, as
other cytokines may compensateEx. knockout of one cytokine
Represents a limitation in the use of bioassays
General properties of cytokines3) Influence on synthesis and
action of other cytokines (cascades)
SynergyTwo or more cytokines having greater additive effects
than one cytokineAntagonismOne or more cytokine(s) can inhibit the
action of the otherGeneral properties of cytokines4) Local mode of
actionMost of cytokines act close to where they are producedEither
on the same cell that secrete the cytokine (autocrine action)Or on
a nearby cell (paracrine action)Circulate at very low levels (
