Interleukin 1 beta

Interleukin 1 beta (pronounced as /ˌɪntərˈluːkɪn wʌn 'beɪtə/), often abbreviated as IL-1β, is a cytokine protein that plays a crucial role in the regulation of immune response and inflammation.

Etymology

The term "Interleukin" is derived from "inter-", a prefix of Latin origin meaning "between", and "leukin", which is derived from "leukos", the Greek word for "white". This refers to the protein's role as a messenger between white blood cells. The "1 beta" signifies that it is one subtype of the Interleukin-1 family.

Function

IL-1β is produced by various types of cells, including macrophages, dendritic cells, and B cells. It is a key mediator in the body's inflammatory response, promoting the production of other pro-inflammatory cytokines and enhancing the activity of T cells and natural killer cells. IL-1β also plays a role in fever production by influencing the hypothalamus.

Related Terms

Cytokine: A type of protein that plays an important role in cell signaling, particularly in immune responses.
Macrophage: A type of white blood cell that engulfs and digests cellular debris, foreign substances, and pathogens.
Dendritic cell: A type of immune cell that processes antigen material and presents it on its surface to other cells of the immune system.
B cell: A type of white blood cell that produces antibodies against antigens.
T cell: A type of white blood cell that plays a central role in cell-mediated immunity.
Natural killer cell: A type of white blood cell that kills cells that are infected with viruses or are otherwise damaged or dysfunctional.
Hypothalamus: A region of the brain that plays a crucial role in many essential functions, including releasing hormones and regulating body temperature.