HealthJuly 16, 2026

cytokine

/ˈsaɪ.təˌkaɪn/

Definition

A type of small protein released by cells that acts as a chemical messenger, often signaling or promoting inflammation within the body.

Etymology

The word is derived from the Greek 'kytos' (hollow vessel or cell) and 'kinesis' (movement or activation), reflecting its role in cell-to-cell signaling.

In the news

The article explains that the ketogenic diet may improve mental health by reducing levels of inflammatory cytokines, which are linked to the development of psychiatric symptoms.

Can a 100-Year-Old Diet Help Treat Severe Mental Illness? What the Evidence Shows

Read the full article ↗

Medscape

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