THE IMMUNE SYSTEM

“Interleukins (ILs) are a group of cytokines (secreted proteins and signal molecules) that were first seen to be expressed by white blood cells known as leukocytes.”  (Wikipedia)  They play crucial roles in the activation and differentiation of immune cells.  They are also responsible for the proliferation, maturation, migration, and adhesion processes.  Interleukins can be “pro-inflammatory” (causing inflammation) or  “anti-inflammatory” properties.  The primary role of interleukins is to modulate growth, differentiation and activation during immune and inflammatory responses.  The toxic stress and deep negative emotions experienced during abuse, trauma and adversities and the body being stuck in “fight or flight” cause the immune system to become more “pro-inflammatory” and interleukins are a big part of this process.  The charts on this page should help get you acquainted with them and the other cells of the immune system.