interleukin-5
Last reviewed 01/2018
Interleukin-5 is a a cytokine produced by:
- certain T-helper cells
- activated mast cells
Interleukin-5:
- acts as a co-stimulator for the growth of antigen- activated B cells
- promotes proliferation and differentiation of immature eosinophils
- activates mature eosinophils
IL-5 is important in:
- fighting parasitic infestations
- the pathogenesis of asthma