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INTERLEUKIN 2 (IL-2)
GENE EXPRESSION

OVERVIEW EXPLANATION

IL-2 is a Cytokine (signalling protein) that plays a key role in the body’s immune response, triggering a range of targeted attacks against foreign invaders of the body, including tumours. The IL-2 assay is designed to help estimate the individual’s current level of specific immune defences against cancer and other serious conditions. The presence of high quantities of IL-2 indicates effective operation of the Immune System. However, its long-term increase can lead to the development of Auto-immune disease. Long-term low IL-2 quantities, on the other hand, indicate diminished immune defence capabilities.

DETAILED EXPLANATION

IL-2 is a Cytokine that is produced by all immature CD4 Th precursor and Th0 cells as well as some Th1 cells of the Immune System. It is the amplificator of the release of various pro-inflammatory Cytokines. IL-2 plays a central role in the immune response by promoting the activation and the proliferation of lymphocytes that have been primed by Antigens (Antigen specific T - lymphocyte proliferation). IL-2 stimulates the proliferation of B cells, augments natural killer cell activity and inhibits the granulocyte macrophage colony formation. This assay is able to assist in the estimation of the specific immune response to cancer (anti-tumour immunity) and other pathological conditions. It is designed to estimate the interleukin 2 gene expression as part of the characterisation of the Th1/Th2 immunological balance.

High quantities are associated with increased activity of the defence system whilst low quantities indicate that the cellular immune response is insufficiently active. Any long-term increased IL-2 quantities can lead to the development of auto-immunity. Any long-term low quantities of IL-2 are associated with a decreased defensive ability of the Immune System.

APPLICATION

This assay will provide extremely valuable and accurate information relating to the following pathological conditions :-

- Cancer, infections and Diabetes.
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