What is the Origin of Cytokine Elevation?

The term combines "cytokine," derived from the Greek words "cyto-" meaning cell and "kinos" meaning movement, referring to their role as cell-to-cell communicators, with "elevation," indicating a rise above a normal physiological range. The concept of cytokines as key inflammatory mediators originated in immunology research, but their profound impact on endocrinology and metabolism has since been fully appreciated.

What is the Mechanism of Cytokine Elevation?

Adipose tissue, particularly visceral fat, and senescent cells are major sources of chronic cytokine release, which acts as an endocrine disruptor. These elevated signaling molecules interfere with insulin receptor function, promoting insulin resistance, and they can directly modulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, contributing to chronic stress responses. This systemic signaling cascade disrupts metabolic homeostasis and accelerates biological aging.

Cytokine Elevation ∞ Area

Cytokine Elevation

Meaning

Cytokine elevation refers to a measurable increase in the circulating concentration of specific signaling proteins, known as cytokines, which mediate and regulate immunity, inflammation, and hematopoiesis. Clinically, a persistent, low-grade elevation of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as Interleukin-6 or Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha is a hallmark of chronic systemic inflammation, often linked to metabolic dysfunction and aging. This sustained inflammatory state is a significant driver of chronic disease progression and hormonal dysregulation.