Which cytokine is primarily known as an anti-inflammatory cytokine?

Interleukin-10 is primarily recognized as an anti-inflammatory cytokine due to its role in regulating immune responses and limiting inflammation. It is secreted by various immune cells, including T helper cells, regulatory T cells, and macrophages. Interleukin-10 helps in inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, thereby playing a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis during inflammatory responses.

Interleukin-10 exerts its effects by downregulating the expression of co-stimulatory molecules on antigen-presenting cells and inhibiting the activation of macrophages and T cells, leading to a reduction in the overall inflammatory response. This function is particularly important in preventing excessive inflammation that can lead to tissue damage and various inflammatory disorders.

In contrast, the other cytokines listed are not primarily anti-inflammatory. Interleukin-6 is known to have both pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory roles, but it is more often associated with the promotion of inflammatory responses. Interleukin-1 is a major pro-inflammatory cytokine that plays a critical role in the inflammatory process. Interleukin-12 is involved in promoting Th1 responses and enhancing cellular immunity, making it more associated with inflammation rather than dampening it. Thus, Interleukin-10 stands out