Cytokines and Gastrointestinal Diseases

Cytokines are proteins that play a key role in cell signaling and mediate communication between cells in the body. They are involved in many physiological processes, including inflammation, immune responses, metabolism, and even cell death. Cytokines are also important players in many gastrointestinal diseases. In these diseases, cytokines can either cause or contribute to the onset of the disease, or can be triggered in response to the disease. For example, increased levels of cytokines are associated with inflammatory bowel diseases and celiac disease. Understanding how cytokines can contribute to these diseases can lead to more effective treatments and better management of the diseases.