NCIt definition : A class of soluble glycoproteins which act nonenzymatically through specific receptors
to regulate immune responses. Cytokines are derived from both immune and non-immune
cells and are intercellular mediators that differ from hormones in that they are produced
by a number of tissue or cell types rather than by specialized glands.;
Alternative definition : NCI-GLOSS: A substance that is made by cells of the immune system. Some cytokines
can boost the immune response and others can suppress it. Cytokines can also be made
in the laboratory by recombinant DNA technology and used in the treatment of various
diseases, including cancer.;