noun
- A protein or signaling molecule produced by lymphocytes that regulates immune responses and cell communication.
Usage: technical; biology/immunology; often used interchangeably with 'cytokine' in modern usage
Examples
- Lymphokines are released by T cells to coordinate immune system activity.
- Interferon is a well-known lymphokine that helps fight viral infections.
- The research team studied how lymphokines regulate inflammation in the body.
- Lymphokines like interleukins play a crucial role in cell-to-cell communication during immune responses.
- Scientists measure lymphokine levels to assess immune function in patients.