Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is a pro-inflammatory cytokine that also has an important role in immunity. IL-6 induces growth and terminal differentiation of B cells; secretion of immunoglobulins; differentiation and activation of T cells and macrophages; and the induction of acute-phase response proteins (1). The gene for IL-6 is located on chromosome 7p21 (2). Many types of cells, including macrophages, T cells, fibroblasts, and endothelial cells, produce IL-6 in response to stimuli such as bacteria, viruses, and other cytokines, particularly IL-1 and tumor necrosis factor, alpha (TNF).

Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is a pro-inflamatory cytokine secreted by T cells and macrophages to stimulate immune response to trauma, especially burns or other tissue damage leading to inflammation. Additionally osteoblasts to stimulate osteoclast formation. Inhibitors of IL-6 (including estrogen) are used to treat postmenopausal osteoporosis.