Human IL-6 ELISA kit - 5-plate

Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is a multifunctional cytokine produced by a wide range of cells. These include innate immune cells as macrophages, dendritic cells, and mast cells, as well as B cells, and certain CD4 effector T helper (Th) cells. In addition, non-leukocyte cells such as endothelial cells, fibroblasts, astrocytes, epithelial cells can also produce IL-6.
Although IL-6 is well known for its strong pro-inflammatory effects, it also plays an important role in regulating adaptive immunity. Specifically, IL-6 influences the balance between different T helper cell subsets. It promotes the differentiation of Th2 cells by increasing the production of IL-4 and IL-13, while simultaneously reducing IFN-γ, which is typically associated with Th1 responses. Furthermore, IL-6 contributes to the differentiation of Th17 cells when acting in combination with TGF-β. At the same time, IL-6 can inhibit the activity of regulatory T (Treg) cells in vitro. Since TGF-β alone promotes Treg cell development, the presence of IL-6 is thought to shift the balance toward Th17 cell differentiation. In this way, IL-6 plays a key role in fine-tuning the equilibrium between pro-inflammatory Th17 cells and immunosuppressive Treg cells.