Interleukin 6 (IL-6) is an interleukin that acts as both a pro-inflammatory cytokine and an anti-inflammatory myokine. osteoblasts secrete IL-6 to stimulate osteoclast formation. Smooth muscle cells in the tunica media of many blood vessels also produce IL-6 as a pro-inflammatory cytokine.
Clinical Significance
Interleukin-6 (IL-6) has important roles in both innate and adaptive immunity. As part of the innate immune system, IL-6 acts on hepatocytes to induce expression of C-reactive protein (CRP), fibrinogen, and serum amyloid A, also known as the acute phase response.