Immune System Quizlet Related

Review Immune System Quizlet related questions and content

How do cytokines typically function in the body?

  • A. In an endocrine manner
  • B. In an autocrine and paracrine manner
  • C. Solely by direct contact with pathogens
  • D. By degrading immune cells
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because cytokines primarily function in an autocrine and paracrine manner. Autocrine signaling occurs when a cell produces a cytokine that acts on the same cell, while paracrine signaling involves cytokines acting on nearby cells. This allows cytokines to regulate immune responses locally. Option A is incorrect as endocrine signaling involves hormones acting on distant target cells via the bloodstream, which is not the primary function of cytokines. Option C is incorrect because cytokines do not require direct contact with pathogens to function. Option D is incorrect as cytokines do not degrade immune cells but rather regulate immune responses.