Interleukin-6 (IL-6)

How to Subscribe
MLS & MLT Comprehensive CE Package
Includes 176 CE courses, most popular
$109Add to cart
Pick Your Courses
Up to 8 CE hours
$55Add to cart
Individual course$25Add to cart
Need multiple seats for your university or lab? Get a quote
The page below is a sample from the LabCE course Metabolic Syndrome. Access the complete course and earn ASCLS P.A.C.E.-approved continuing education credits by subscribing online.

Learn more about Metabolic Syndrome (online CE course)
Interleukin-6 (IL-6)

IL-6 responds to tissue injury. IL-6 is synthesized and secreted by many different types of cells in addition to adipocytes, including immune cells, fibroblasts, endothelial cells, and skeletal muscle cells.
IL-6 is increased in obesity and insulin resistance. Individuals with elevated levels are at higher risk for type 2 diabetes and myocardial infarction. Similar to TNF-α, IL-6 increases NEFA release and reduces adiponectin secretion. IL-6 increases insulin resistance by inhibiting insulin receptor signal transduction in liver cells.
It also increases other inflammatory cytokines, interleukin-1 (IL-1) and TNF-α, and stimulates the liver to produce C-reactive protein (CRP), an important protein marker of inflammation.