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Cytokines are a simple polypeptide or glycoproteins with a molecular weight less than 30 kDa. The main function of cytokines is to regulate immune function. However, their wide-ranging effects on cell proliferation, differentiation, inflammation, migration, survival and apoptosis allow them to play a role in homeostatic control of various tissues, organs and systems. Some cytokines also control body temperature, fatigue, appetite and metabolism. They are important mediators of various aspects of health and disease, including, glucose and lipid metabolism, insulin sensitivity, skeletal muscle hypertrophy and atrophy, neurodegenerative disorder, liver and kidney disease.

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