Cytokines in Neurodegenerative Diseases

Cytokines are a type of small regulatory molecules produced by cells in the immune system. They play an important role in the modulation of the body’s reaction to infections, inflammation and other stimuli. In the context of neurodegenerative diseases, cytokines are believed to link various aspects of the disease such as inflammation, neuronal death, and the progressive deterioration of neurological function. Cytokines are thought to be involved in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, Huntington's and other neurodegenerative diseases by mediating “cross-talk” between neurons and glial cells. They are also thought to modulate the expression of genes related to the disease, as well as induce apoptosis or cell death. Thus, further research into the potential therapeutic application of cytokines in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases is essential in order to develop more effective treatments.