Interleukin-1

Interleukin-1 (IL-1) is an important signaling molecule produced and released by certain white blood cells. It is involved in many normal physiological functions, including immune responses, inflammation, and the regulation of hematopoiesis (the process by which new blood cells are formed). It has also been linked to a number of diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and certain types of cancer. IL-1 has become an important target for new therapeutic interventions, as it has been shown to be involved in the pathogenesis of many of these conditions.