Question

5. Briefly explain the function of the following proteins found in Table 2: a. C-reactive protein (CRP) b. Tumor necrosis factor-a (TNF-a) c. Interleukin 6 (IL-6)

Answer 1

5.

a. C-reactive protein (CRP)

These proteins are secreted by the hepatocytes in response to the action of the cytokines. they mainly works in innate immunity response. it activates the complement system. it helps in the opsonization of the microbes by binding to the Fc receptors.

b. tumor necrosis factor - $\alpha$

they are produced by the activated macrophages and lymphocytes which induce the fibroblast proliferation. they are also chemotactic for fibroblasts and stimulate synthesis of collagen. they works by enhancing the immunity and inflammatory reactions.

c. interleukin 6

the source of the interleukin-6 is macrophages, T and B cells, bone marrow stromal cells, vascular endothelial cells, fibroblasts, keratinocytes and mesangial cells. this cytokine is multifunctional and plays an important role in defense mechanism. they have central role in inducing the acute phase response by sythesising CRP, serum amyloid A, hepciidin and thus inhibiting the albumin production.